riverfront recreation complex

8/11/2019 RIVERFRONT RECREATION COMPLEX

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AN ARCHITECTURAL THESIS PROGRAM FOR THE DESIGN OF A

RIVERFRONT RECREATION COMPLEXPresented to

Dr. GEORGE T.C. PENGDIVISION OF ARCHITECTURE

TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY

In Partial Fulfillmentof the Requirements of the

Bachelor of Architecture Degree

byJ. Kenneth Whistler

May 13, 1985


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Preface ^vi

INTRODUCTIONPROJECT QUALIFICATIONPROJECT HISTORY "PROJECT DESCRIPTION ........[[.[[. \PROJECT CHALLENGE ,

4BACKGROUND STUDIES

THESIS STATEMENTSIGNIFICANCE OF R E C R E AT I O N . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [ [ . . 5RECREATION AND THE CITY 6

Current Circumstances 7Existing Facilities 8Recreational Need ' gRecent Developments/Community Comprehensions 9

THE CITY

Geographical Setting nHltory of the City 12Population I3

growth trends I3pro j ections 15

Economic Trends 15Government 17

city government 17financial structure , 17

Land Use 18current policy 18land cover and development 19

END NOTES 21

DESIGNGOALS OBJECTIVES 23SITE ANALYSIS 25

Site Selection 25Site Objectives 25Site Data Classifications 26Architectural Context 28

project overview 28site overview 28climate overview 28

Diagrams -"ACTIVITY ANALYSIS ^3

Classif ications of Recreation '3Human Life Cycles ^^

infant 7^child ^5adolescentyoung adultolder adult

Indoor ActivitiesOutdoor Activities

1 1


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SPACE SUMMARY 65Indoor Spaces 55Outdoor Spaces 59

SYSTEMS PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 69Structural 59Mechanical 69Plumbing 70Electrical 70Life Safety 71

COST ANALYSIS 73Introduction 73Building Cost Summary 73Project Cost Summary 73

DETAILED SPACE LIST 74Indoor Spaces 75Outdoor Spaces 91

ENDNOTES 94

PROJECT SUMMARY

FINDINGS 95PROPOSALS 96

APPENDIX ADOCUMENTATION

APPENDIX BSTANDARDS

BIBLIOGRAPHY

i l l


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LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

Figure

BACKGROUND2.1 Public Pool Ratios 3

2.2 Public Gym Ratios g2.3 Project CITY; Question 13 Results 102.4 Project CITY: Question 20 Results H2.5 Population Composition by Age and Sex, 1980 142.6 City Government Organization 17

DESIGN3.1 Temperature 403.2 Precipitation . . . . . 403.3 Relative Humidity 413.4 Sky Cover 41

Map

DESIGN3.1 Location of City in State 303.2 Location of Neighborhood in City 313.3 Location of Site in Neighborhood 323.4 Size and Zoning 333.5 Legal 343.6 Natural Physical Features 353.7 Man Made Features 363.8 Circulation 373.9 Utilities 383.10 Sensory 39

iv


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LIST OP TABLES

Table

BACKGROUND2.1 Population Projections 152.2 Municipal Revenue and Expenditures 18

2.3 Average City-Wide Land Use 19

DESIGN3.1 Solar ALtitude and Azimuth 423.2 Weather Relationships 423.3 Standards for Recreation Activities 443.4 Stages in Life Span Development 463.5 Recommended Finish Schedule for General Areas '23.6 Recommended Finish Schedule for Sports Areas "2


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SLIDE INDEX

PRELIMINARY DESIGN

SlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSI ikeSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlide

SlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlide

SlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlide

1 Case study-Abilene Baptist Church Activities Center2 Media coverage of river , development3 Location of City in State4 Location of neighborhood in city5 Location of site in neighborhood6 Urban Concept7 Existing Zoning/Land Use of Neighborhood8 Existing physical features9 Existing natural physical features10 Existing circulation11 Sensory (views from site)12 Sensory (views to site)13 Indoor/outdoor concept14 Athletic center/social center/control concept15 Design response vignette-incorporate bowling alley16 drv-physical extensions accross river17 drv-extend water into site18 drv-flat ground for playing fields19 drv-high ground for building20 drv-floodway21 drv-trees as buffers22 drv-public image concept23 drv-" island" concept w/lookout towers aijd trails24 drv-grid organization25 drv-linear organization26 drv-centralized organization27 drv-radial organization28 drv-clustered organization29 drv-extend riverwalk & create "anchor"30 Optimum building over 3 grids31 1"=5032 l"-5033 l"-5034 l"-5035 l"-5036 l"-50

1"=50l"-501"=50

1"=5041 l"-5042 l"-2043 l"-2044 l"-20

1"=20l"-201"=201"=20

373839

40

4546474849 1"=2050 1"=20

site layout-"anchor"site layout-"water thru bid."site layoutsite layoutsite layoutsite layout-"water thru""park, tree corridor, over water, into bid.""pre final w/racquetball facing nothing""social gym" and racquetball facing river

"final layout""final layout with contourspartial planpartial plan-entry & walk over waterpartial plan-ice skating intersectionpartial plan-ice skatingpartial plan-ice skatingcurvilinear seating outside gymscurvilinear seating outside gymscurvilinear seating outside gymscurvilinear seating outside gyms

51 Contextual images52 Open pavillion sketches-images53 Cei ling height requirements for indoor tennis


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Slide #54 High tech elevation imageSlide #55 Elevations-weight platform sketches-fountain sketchesSlide #56 Section-level changesSlide #57 Section-circulation/weightlifting/gymSlide #58 Section-circulation/atrium showing mechanical duct, planterSlide #59 Section-dance studio loftSlide #60 Section-fountain/pyramid skylitesSlide #61 Elevation study-locker roof/mechanical shaft space aboveSlide #62 Elevations/sections-ice skating barrel vaultSlide #63 Elevations/sections-ice skating barrel vaultSlide #64 Elevation of south aquatic elevationSlide #65 Elevation of sunburst suncreen ice skatingSlide #66 Section-final barn structureSlide #67 Wind scoop, athletic center/social centerSlide #68 Wrap activities around center, link to riverSlide #69 ''Neon bridge, wiue corridor concept)Slide #70 ~1"=100' site contour modelSlide #71 Top photo of lookout towerSlide #72 Study model-lookout tower/barnel elevationSlide #73 Study model-barn elevation

FINAL DESIGN

SlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlideSlide

SlideSlideSlideSlideSlide

#1#2#3#4#5#6#7#8#9#10#11#12#13#14#15#16#17#18#19#20

#21#22#23#24#25

Study model-site contourFinal thesis presentation exhibitSite planFloor planElevations/sectionsElevations-west-north-south/section d-dSouth elevationWest elevationSections a-a, b-b and c-cSection b-b (gym)Section (skating rink)Final model-front shot overall (se)Final model-aerial entry (west)Final model-aerial sw sideFinal model-aerial southFinal model-aerial south (closer)Final model-aerial eastFinal model-eye level ice skating arcadeFinal model-eye level social entry (secondary) _Final model-eye level athletic center entry (ma m)Final model-eye level squash, gyms, bridgeFinal model-eye level squash, gyms, bridgeFinal model-gyms, social gym, skatingFinal model-gyms, social gym, skatingFinal model-corner of model to gyms


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PREFACEAll architecture design students at Texas Tech University are required

to develop and design a terminal thesis project for partial fulfillment of

the requi rement s of the Bachelor of Architecture degree. The architecture

proj ect und ert ake n during the fifth year is intended to be a sunimation of

the five years of undergraduate learning experiences and should demonstrate

that the student is fully prepared to enter the architecture profession.

The architecture thesis project has a two-fold process : program and design.

Once a student receives approval of a thesis topic, the programming process

begi ns. A compl ete , writt en program for design is prepared through pre

liminary resea rch, discussion and decision making. The thesis program

should contain all pertinent information enabling the designer to make

sound decis ions about optimum function, spa ce, geometry, context and enclosure.

A prerequisite of the thesis project requires that each student identify a

viable client and a real site to contribute an essential realistic quality

to the proje ct. Once the program is completed, design synthesis pertinent

to the progr am is executed. Physical sketches, diagrams and models which

express the ese nce of the thesis project are visualized and exposed at this

time. The to tal completion of the project usually takes two full regular

semester or approximately eight mon ths .

In the pages to follow is an architecture thesis program for the design

of a riverfront recreation complex in Wichita Falls, Texas. Expected

accompl ishments to be realized upon the completion of the thesis program are:

-to assist in coping with information overload by idendifying the functional

and spatial needs of the project requirements,

-to accurately define potential project issues.

-to propose and recommend architectural design solutions based on the

profile of the programmatic requirements and conditions.


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PROJECT QUALIFICATIONBefore choosing to do a thesis topic proposal my mind was made up

to do somethin g related to athletics and/or recreation. I have participated

in many sports and rec reationa l activities all of my life, playing football,

baseba ll , basketball and many others. I have participated on playing

field s, playing courts and related facilities of all sorts and have formulated

essential design ideas based on those actual experiences.

I also wan ted to do an architectural thesis project within an urban

scope, that is to design a building looking from the outside-in, rather

than from the insid e-out. I felt that by addressing the broad spectrum

of sca les , from site to county to city, and particularly from city to

neighbo rhood to specific site , many different concepts could be generated.

From these concepts then, my architectural solution to these "outside"

conditions would be sensit ive, practical , rea l , accepted and part of the

whol e. So , on my quest to find an architectural thesis project within an

urban sc op e, and to do one related to athletics and/or recreation, I arrived

at Wichi ta Fa ll s, Tex as. The "trip" there was insignificant compared to

what was found once I "arrived".

PROJECT HISTORYAt the pres ent time , Wichita Falls is the only major city in the state

of Texas without any type of public recreation center. City administrators

have been aware of this fact for quite some ti me, and are addressing this

issue wit h caut ious ent husiasm. The City Parks and Recreation Department

(CPRD) has w ante d a citywide recreation center for several year s, preferably

one in each sector of the city, or a total of five. They realized this

was unrealistic and have focused attention on one recreation center for

the whole city . So , several years ago, the CPRD drew up a proposal for a


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a c itywide recre ation center to be located in Kiwanis Park in the southwest

section of the city. Mixed reaction occurred because many people felt that

a recreation center would not be used, since local YMCA and high school

facilities were a vailable to the publi c. And apparently the public still

had a bad taste in their mouth from an earlier proposal , and so anything

connotatin g the term "recreation center" was generally looked at negatively.

But city administrators knew that those facilities would not support a

steadily growing population and could see a lack of public recreation

facilities (particularly indoor) in the near future. A bond election was

held and the proposa l was defeated by less than 200 votes .

Muc h has changed since then. A new mayor has been elected, city-wide

zoning has bee n app roved, the Youth Activities Advisory Council (YAAC) has

been formulated, and the public reaction for a recreation center has shifted.

The theme could now be described in the phrase "what is it that we can do

to make W ich ita Falls a better place to live?"

Acco rding to a random, city-wide survey conducted by six marketing

students at Ride r Hi gh Schoo l, a Recreation Center for the Youth would most-

benefi t the c it y. The results of this survey had such an impact on the

city that the findings ha ve been used by the Wichita Falls Board of Commerce

and Industry and variou s members of the Image Committee. It also stimulated

the City Cou ncil to invite these six students to serve on the council and

be the "vo ic e" for the youth in the city. So, the YAAC was formed and their

^c 1-hP Recre ati on Cen ter and inf orm the public offirst task was to promote the Recreation u

thei . s rv e. fin din gs. Today, the city council and the general public ha v,

accepted the need for a recreation center and will do everything pos.iUe

to ge t one. h.Th the city could be a better place to live would

Another way m which the city

n.dinances to be used for policy implementation. Thisbe to adopt zoning ordinances to u


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wou ld coo rdi nat e a hig her aua ^ r ^f n , nigner quality of living environment within the city

and deter the abuse of unpla nned, man-made developments. Still another

way of helpin g to make Wichita Falls a better place to live would be to

confront the issue of the downtown decay. Since the 1979 tornado wiped

out major portio ns of the southwest section of the city, new construction

has occurred attracti ng many people to the "newer" side of town. In an

effort to bring these people b ack , or at least renew their interest in

the downtown are a, the city is looking for ways in which the River Development

Distr ict (RDD) can be planned. Urban planning and architecture consultants

have been hired and design review committees have been formed in order

to coordinate efforts on implementing an urban plan of the whole RDD to

be used as policy for future downtown riverfront development.

PROJECT DESCRIPTIONThe YAAC wa nts a recreation center that is highly visible and near

water. They want a "club-med" or resort-type atmosphere with the availability

of adult- type acti viti es, such as a night club effect with a bar and dancing.

They want a variety of activities not necessarily constant. That is, they

don't wan t to be stuck doing the same things all year long. They desire

the flexibility of activities on a day-to-day basis. The YAAC envisions

beaches, live concerts, 3 wheelers, roller skating along the river, horseback

riding, ice skating, tubing, paddle boats, canoeing, as well as swimming,

basket ball, gymnas tics and gameroom s. They suggest that most of these

activities be avai lable in a nightime atmosphere along with daytime. As

for the location, the "k ids" realize the new development that is occuring

(the new S herat on H ote l) to the west as well as the possible location of

the new ci vic center to the east. They don't want to be located next to

the new ci vic center locatio n because "alot of dirty old men tend to hang

around the civic center now ". They would prefer to have the recreation


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isolated somewhere along the river close enought and within walking distance

to the new de velopme nt transpiring n ow. The CPRD sees the recreation center

to be primarily an indoor facility with a multipurpose gym for basketball,

volley ball , tennis and badminton. Other activit ies are: racquetball,

gymnastics, weight rooms, game rooms (kids and adul t s ) , indoor track,

activity room s for cook ing, art and dancing, meeting ro oms, snack bar and

indoor swimm ing. The CPRD want the recreation center to be located adjacent

to the new civic cent er, either east or west of it on the southside of

the river. If the recreation center is proposed on the northside, it should

be close to Scotland P ark. The CPRD felt that if a Recreation Center is

proposed without being part of an overall plan of the whole riverfront,

then i t will not pass . Bu t, if an overall plan is proposed, and the recreation

is a part of that plan, then it will receive favor.

PROJECT CHALLENGEThe planning and design of a river front recreation complex herein

proposed demand a precise and logical approach. To create a facility or

facilities which accomodate all age groups in a location convenient to

a majorit y of the users is the essence of the design. In order to meet

this cha lle nge , I must begin with locating the optimum site within the

RDD. Both the CPRD and YAAC have general locational preferences, but both

agreed that I should choose the best site according to their functional

requir ements . Because of the complexity of the project, defining and

redefining its sco pe according to both the CPRD's and YAAC's needs and

synthesizing wit h my design intentions was another challenge. Still another

architectural challenge was to reflect the unique needs of the city by

accommodating functionally, expressing aesthetically and relating harmoniously

with the surrou ndin gs. My ultimate challenge was to design a recreation

center that the people of Wichita Falls will want to come to.


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THESIS STATEMENTA fundamental aspect of man is to have a clear purpose/goal in life

in which to aim at. It is this purpose that ultimately leads man on a

journey towards what is considered "the good life". The question is then,

what is it that ultimately fulfills man? What is it that man is directed

towards? What is "the good life"? Each man has his own purpose or actual

ization of fulfillment to fit his particular aims, but most will agree that

the fina l good in life is having good health, wealth, family and friends.

Having good health requi res a balance. Man exhausts his supply of vitality

working for a living. Therefore in order to maintain a healthful equalibrium,

he must take time out periodically from the rigors of everyday living for

recreational pursuits.

SIGNIFICANCE OF RECREATIONRecreation is the refreshment of one's entire being, mind and body.

It is accomplished through any form of play, amusement or relaxation. It

is a nonwork activity engaged in for pleasure in the form of games, sports,

hobbies, reading walking and etc. Recreational activities are often

culturally and socially structured, and within a culture, people tend to

want to engage in similar modes of action. Activities defined as recreational

provide easily identifiable situations that give immediate sanctions for2

people to relax. Games are one such structured device for defining a

situation as a time to relax from normal work, seriousness or routine

responsibility.

Recreational activities can be classified into two broad categories:

passive and active.^ Passive recreational activities are those primarily

intended to refresh the mind and therefore require little physical involve

ment. Examples of such are: walking, talking, reading, eating, watching,

sightseeing and other similar acts. Active recreational activities, on

the other hand, are those that refresh the body and therefore involve quick


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and brisk actions which require intensive bodily movement. Examples of such

are field games, court games , skating, jogging, riding, boating and skiing.

Both types of recreational activities are practiced by people of all ages,

but for obvious reasons, passive recreation is more common among the old

while active recreation is more prominent among the young.

Apart from serving its basic function of refreshing the mind and

body, recreation also induces competition and team spirit. It gives an

opportunity to learn the important values developed through team spirit

and cooperat ion and the sense of belonging to a group. Therefore, recreation

provides soci al, cultural and educational benefits to the community, prompt

ing social interaction and encouraging better human relations.

Recreation can produce economic and commercial benefits as well, both

directly and indirectly. The direct economic benefits come from events

and activities like spectator sports, stage shows and amusement parks.

The indirect economic benefit of recreation is in the form of tourism. Many

major recreational events and activities bring in people from far places.

These people spend money in motels, restaurants and shopes enhancing the

local economy and thereby providing new jobs for its citizens. Another

indirect economic benefit is the desirable quality that recreational

facilities provide for a community, hence making it a more preferred area

to work and live . Well developed and adequate recreation and open space

areas tend to attract and hold people in the community through their positive

impact on individual lifestyles.

RECREATION and the CITYas of now, Mlohita Falls is the only ajor city in the State

o f Texas without any type of H S i i / - f - / ^ ^ f - ron.rallv there is one recreation facility for every .io.uuup l o S - i r m e a n s Wichita Falls should have - - s t - r ^ ^ ^ ^ _5 facilities at the present time. . . ^^^^ f^ ^ l ^ ^ ,oulding response for such a building. . / f ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ u u n d sbenefit all types o ^ people and would be a placeof fellowship. . "


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These observations, expressed by Lori Gordon, Chairperson of the

Youth Activities Advisory Council (YAAC), were presented to the City Council

at a meeting in February of 1985. Her insight is representative of many

in Wichita Falls concerning the lack or inadequancies of existing public

gymnasiums or indoor sports facilities. The obvious questions, then, are

why are there no public recreation facilities and what facilities are

currently being used for this purpose? Is the city proposing for the future

new facilities to meet these needs, or will the current facilities continue

to be used? What are the most recent developments and particularly, the

perceptions of those involved?

current circumstancesAlthough Wichita Falls is a major urban center for a 12-county region,it has little to offer by way of public gyms or indoor sports facilities for

7its citizens. There are many reasons for this, but the most obvious is its

low per capita spending on public parks and recreation. Goals for Wichita

Falls, a report compiled in 1980 by the City of Wichita Falls, Wichita

County, the Wichita Falls Board of Commerce and Industry, civic and profes

sional organizations and private contributions, addressed this issue. Of

the top 10 priority goals defined, increased funding of the City's public

parks and recreation system was fourth. It should be noted that the City

of Wichi ta Falls spends only $8.00 per capita on public parks and recreation,

8as opposed to the national average of $18.26.

Another reason for the absence of public recreation facilities is the

overall misconception by the community of what a "Recreation Center" is.

Due to existing YMCA and YWCA facilities in Wichita Falls , and possibly

due to lack of exposure of recreation centers, many people in the community

seem to equate the two. So, for this reason, proposals for additional

facilities seem ludicrous to them.


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existing facilitiesAs Mentioned, YMCA and YWCA facilities are currently being used for

indoor recreation and sports. The junior and senior high schools and

Midwestern State University are being used as public facilities as well.

The problem is that accessibility to each is somewhat limited. Some school

gymnasiums are connected directly to their classroom facilities which10prohibit s opening the gyms to the public. The City Parks and Recreation

has identified two alternatives: create a joint program between the Wichita

Falls Independent School District and the City to provide funds to modify

these gyms for public use without access to classrooms; and/or to build

four new recreat ion centers which will have gyms and indoor sports facilities.

These centers, listed in order of priority, will be owned and operated by

the City and should be located at the following existing parks: Scotland,

12Kiwanis, Lamar and Expressway Village.

recreat ional needEight priorities for recreation needs have been identified by the

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Texas Outdoor Recreation Plan (TORP) for 1985 in Wichita Falls. Of these,

swimming poo ls , basketball courts, softball fields, soccer fields and trails

were cited as most needed.

The TORP indicates that Wichita Falls has approximately the required

number of square yards of swiitmiing pools to accomodate the existing popula

tion; however, the ratio of public pools to private pools is unacceptable

to TORP standards. The existing ratios are:

EXISTING RECOMMENDED fig- 2.1 Public Pool Ratios ' Source: Parks, Recreation,

public 7% Public 95% and Open Space Elements-

private 93% Private 5% Executive Summary, p. 803.15

Hence Parks S. Recreation recormnends additional public swinging pools: one

1200 sqyd poo l at Kiwanis part to serve the south end of the city:


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an d one 550 sq. rd. pool a t O'Reilly Park in conjuction wit h the Big Wichita

14River Greenbelt development.

Wichit a Falls lacks public indoor gymnasium facilities, an d only two

outdoor full courts a re available fo r public use .^^The present ratio of

public t o private gyms is unacceptable.

EXISTING RECOMMENDED ^. ^ o r, -u-, fig. 2.2 Public G ym Ratios

c-Ki.;^ /no. r, 1--, r.^ Source: Park s, RecreationPublic 4 2 % Public 95% ,n. ,--,4- coQ. _._ ,- and Open Space Elements-Private 5 8% Private 5% :;: ,. :r-Do Executive Summary, p.80 3.20 .

Of t he existing public gymnasiums , 95% are school facilities.

Wichita Falls presently has 11 softball fields which receive heavy

use from March through November. The increased pop ularity of this sport

and heavy participation experienced in Wichita Falls indicates a need for

more facilit ies. The TORP recommends 16 softball fields f or Wichita Falls.

The construction of a multi-fie ld complex which could contain five softball

fields, o ne baseball field, two soccer fields and other recreati on facilities16

is warranted. A master plan wi ll provide t he direction f or funding, phasing,17

and the organization necessary to build such a facility.

Soccer is rapidly increasing in popularity and the demand for fields

will increase. The City o f Wichita Fa lls needs more soccer fields . The

existing one mile of trails is far less than i s recommended by TORP and is

less than cities of comparable size. An additional four miles of trails

which a re destination oriented an d provide a logical pedestrian system

which links the par ks, recreation opportunities and open spaces together

should be installed.

recent developments/comprehensionsOn November 23 , 1984 six Rider Marketing and Distributive Education

, 18II students initiated as their Creative Marketing proje ct, "Project City"

The results of this project had such an impact on the city that th e findings


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have been used by the Wichita Falls Board of Commerce and Industry, the

City of Wic hi ta F all s and var iou s membe rs of the Image Commi ttee. "'"

"Project CITY was a random city-wide survey conducted by several

Marketing and Distributive Education students at Rider High School to

find out how residents of Wichita Palls really felt about their community.

Resul ts of the 600 random telephone calls reveals two most significant

s ta t i s t ics . Quest ion 13 asked, "of the following, which do you feel would

20most benef i t the city?" This question had multiple answers , but the number

one answer was a Recreation Center for the youth . Furthermore, question

600'

500-

400'

Recreation_, . _ MoreCente r for ..

-r .1.1- More CulturalYouth ^ . , . . . . Dept. _.._ Industry Activities Convention

M 2 _ ... . _ stores ^^^^^^380

300-

200-

100

441 407

u

MoreDept.

Stores407

BetterRestaurants Liquor

290 by thedrink

229Night

clubs147 ,

Fig. 2.3 . Proj ect CITY Survey: Question 13 Results ^ ^ ^S o L c e : comme nt-O ffici al Newsletter of the Wichita Falls Board of Coimaerce s

Industry Jan/Feb. 1985

20, ask ed, "If you were in charge of running Wichita Fall s, what would be

the first thing you would do ?" Many people, 224 to be exact, had difficulty

answering this question.' 'But of the 144 who did respond, a Teen Center for

the yout h wa s the top answer again. As a result of the survey findings,

the Marketing and Distributive Education students were invited to serve on

the you th acti viti es advisory Council (vaac, . The VaaC is ..ae up of two

10


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100

50

25

CenterTeen

45

ImproveStreets ^^^^

.^ Beauty

36 Work onFlooding20

Fig. 2.4 Project City survey; Question 20 resultsSource: Comment-Official Newsletter of the Wichita Falls Board of Commerce

& Industry Jan/Feb 1985.

Council . It was during February of this year when Lori Gordon delivered

her speech to the City Council regarding a recreation center. "What we

mean by recreation center is a place for swimming, basketball, gymnastics,

dances, pool tables, etc., which is free to the public . . . we suggest

more activities . . . such as 3-wheelers, horseback riding, ice skating,

tubing, paddle boats , canoeing, a walk around or along the river, that could

possibly be used for roller skating. Most of these things need to be

available in a nightime atmosphere, as well as daytime. Sports and clubs

take up most of our time in the afternoon, but even those get monotonous

and night is usually oiir only free time, so we want to make the best of it.

We've grown up in Wichita Falls with movies, Kemp, and occasionally a dance

or tw o, with no other options than to try and do adult things, which are

i l l e g a l t o m i n o r s .2 3

THE CITYGEOGRAPHICAL SETTING :

The city of Wichita Falls is located in Wichita County at the northernmost

part of Texas. The county is its metropolitan area or SMSA (Standard

Metropolitan Statistical Area) and has an area of approximately 392,960

acres or 614 square mile s. Wichita Falls is the largest city and the county

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seat of Wichit a Co unty and is located 138 miles northwest of Port Worth ,

150 miles northwest of Dallas and 145 miles southwest of Oklahoma Ci ty?*

Wichita Pall s ' exact location is 9 8 North Latitude and 34 West Longitude.

HISTORY OF THE CITY;

The dev elopm ent of Wichita Fall s began as a major ranching settlement

in the 1870 's. Named after the Wichita Indians which inhabited the

reg ion , the settlement became a part of Wichita County, which was created

in June of 1 88 2. After becoming the county seat in 1883, the settlement

expanded and develo ped, incorporating on July 29, 1889. The city developed

along the low-lying flood plains of the Wichita River due to a need for

water.

The y ear s from 1890 to 1910 are known as the Railroad-Agricultural

Perio d. Wit h the growth of the cattle ranches and the need for railroad

tran spor tati on, the city began spreading outward. It was in this period

that the major determinant for the direction of city growth was created.

The railroad tracks and attendent cattle pens were located on the east

side of the down town . When coupled with the prevailing westerly winds , this

made the east side of town a less than desirable location for growth.

Thus, the east side became th e "other side of the tracks" where the low-

income groups res ided. The principal direction of development was to the

2S,west and south beca use the Wichit a River formed a barrier to the north.

It was du ring the years from 1910 to 1 940, known as the oil and Early

Industry Period, that the city of Wichita Falls experienced a fivefold

increase in population from approximately 8,000 persons to over 40,000

persons. This gr owth can be attributed to the discovery of oil in the area

and the subsequent development of the attendent industry necessary to support

oil field oper ati ons . It was also in 1921 when the first city plan for

Wichita Fal ls was drawn up . As stated in its introduction, the city plan

12


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was developed

". to govern and give direction to the growth of the cityand to provide a program for its physical betterment. Theplan as prepared provides for definite public improvementsand for a definite classification of the uses of the landwhich the city occupies or is likely to occupy."26

With the onset of World War II and the development of Sheppard Air

Force Base, the years from 1940 to 1960 are known as the Military Training

Period. During this period the city experienced a more than doubling of

popula tion. The influx of military personnel and their money led to an

increased need for retail goods and services. This influence is still felt

today and accounts for the strong econmic growth in retail sales.

The 1960's saw the city of Wichita Falls diversifying and expanding

her industry and manufacturing; and this period is, therefore, known as

the Urban Industrial Period. This growth continued on into the 1970's

with the development of an industrial part to the north of the city and

a manufacturing and warehousing district to the south.^^

POPULATION:

Growth Trends : Wichita Fall's total population has remained approximatelyV

at the same level since 1960. The city has experienced an increase ink29civilian population since 1970, though not as rapid as other Texas cities.

Despite the increases in civilian population, total population of the

city declined from 1960 to 19 80. ^%ajor factors in the city's decline of

populat ion were decreases in military personnel at Sheppard Air Force Base

and reductions in the patient population at the Wichita Falls State

Hospital.

According to the 1980 U.S. Census, Wichita Falls' total population was

94,201 living in an area of 31,953 acres with an average population density

of 2.95 persons per acre.

Major factors in the population growth of any city are measured by

birth ra tes , death rates and migratory rates. For Wichita County, the

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birth rate was 26 births per 1000 population in 1980. By 1983, the

percentage of city's popula tion younger than 20 years old has declined from

40.2% to 31. 9% of the total population, while the number of elderly residents

has increased from 6% in 1960 to 1 1% of the total population in 198o.

Indicative of this, the annual death rate in 1980 for the county was 11.5

deaths per 1000 population, while in 1983 it decreased to 11.1 death per

1000 population.

1983 building trends show an increase in construction over the past

31two years. Residential growth has been an important stimulant for increased

population , with most construction occuring on property affected by the

1979 tornado disaster. Further growth in industry, utilities and facilities

are essential for a continuing population increase.

fig. 2.5 Population Composition by Age and Sex 1980Source: Comprehensive Plan Population Element

76+

8 8 - 7 4

6 0 - 6 4

56-59

46-54

3 5 - 4 4

30-34

26-29

20-24

16-19

10-14

6-9

AGE 0-4

MALE


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projections: Wichita Palls population projections for the years 1990

and 2000 are based upon the Cohort-Survival Model. Because iimnigration

rates vary over a ten-year period, several different iimnegration rates

were used? ' Analysis of trends since 1980 indicates that Wichita Falls

population has grown at a net immigration rate of between 0% and 1.0%.

At this r ate , 1990 population in Wichita Falls will bebetween 98,310 and

108,140 persons and 2000 population in Wichits Falls will be between 103,20033

and 124,000 persons.

These predicti ons, prepared each year by the Wichta Falls planning

Department in conjunction with the the Board of Commerce and Industry and

local utility companies, are used only as a general guide for determining

future development trends of land use, housing, facilities, utilities, etc.

However, these predictions could be altered by factors of industrial

development, city annexation and many other potential influences.

TABLE 2 .1 POPULATION PROJECTIONS

WICHITA PALLS

1960 1970 1980 1990 2000

101,724 96,371 94,201 98,310- 103,150-104,104 124,040

Source: Population Elements, p.1 6.

ECONOMIC TRENDS;

Historically, the city of Wichita Falls has had no problems with high

unemployment; in fact, the reverse has been true. The labor force until

recently has been lacking only in middle-income type jobs. This has been

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due to the labor intensive, low-income nature of the industrial, oil field,

and retail jobs which have dominated the labor force.

Agriculture, which was the original stimulus for the development of

Wichita Fall s, has become a minor industry. Now it is seen primarily as

family farming and as a form of retirement refuge. No growth is expected

from this sector.

The oi l industry wi th its attendent metal working and related indust

rial development has been fairly stable due to the age of the oil fields.

However, with the present oil shortages, new exploration and development

might well stimulate a resurgence of this industry.

With the city's proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and

Oklahoma Ci ty, wholesale trade is expected to remain constant. Retail

trade is expected to show steady growth, influenced by both the increases

in personal income and in population.

It is manufacturing where the greatest increases are expected to occur.

Due to dramatic increases of manufacturing in the Dallas-Fort Worth area,

manufac turers are searching the Southwest area for good, low-cost manufact

uring sites with an adequate work force. While the Wichita Falls labor

force is virtually fully employed, it has shown the capacity to expand

as needed for an industry. With good utilities, adequate water supplies,

good rail and other transportation services, and a good climate Wichita

Falls has encouraged manufacturing development by the establishment of

an industrial foundation known as Industrial Development Incorporated,

supported by the Board of Commerce and Industry. This expansion of manu

facturing is expected to have several effects. While Wichita Falls has

a university to train upcoming executives, it is expected that companies

will import much of their needed white collar workers. This will cause

an increase in the housing industry and related t rades, as well as introduce

into the economic picture a substantial middle-class group. The net result

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is that there wi ll be ore lo -inoo.e and n,i.aie-inco,e :obs and an

influx of new money into the comiunity, spurring retail sales. '"

GOVERNMENT:

City Government: Wichita F TTo ,. *.

ichita Falls operates a council-manager form of govern

ment. The Offices of mayor and councilmen are positions filled by persons

elected at large who receive a nominal salary of one dollar per year,

under the mayor and city council, the city manager is the administration

of the city. The planning commission and zoning board are responsible

for guiding and consolidatiing the city development, respectively. The

manager implements the policy decisions of the mayor and council on city

affairs and development.fig. 2.6 City Government Organization

nni Mfl^on/^

t I Civ MA Ma r.r r i

C O M N * s S ' 0 ^

l^-** C


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Financially, Wichi ta Falls appears to have a stable financial base.

At present, the local government maintains several sources of income.

Among these are state revenue sharing, sales taxes, property taxes based

upon a percentage of the actual property values, and fees for services

including wa ter , sewer and garbage collections. Table 2.2 shows municipal

revenues and expenditures of Wichita Falls for 1983.^^

TABLE 2. 2 MUNICIPAL REVENUE AND EXPENDITURES

Total Operating Budget $37,302,580

Total Expenditures for Capital 3,208,922

Total Expenditures for Bond Retirement 4,737,147

General Obligation Bonds 19,153,000

Revenue Bonds 9,240,000

Total Tax Collections 12,699,852

Total Water , Sewer, Garbage Fee 12,093,000

Total Other Income 13,242,905

Source: Community profile of Wichita Falls 1983

LAND USE:

Current Land Use Policy: The City of Wichita Falls was the second largest

city in the U.S . without comprehensive land use controls. Prior to these

cont rols, the public sector relied primarily upon building permit review

and bui lding code enforcement processes to regulate development.

Prior to the land use controls, the city used the Wichita Falls

Comprehensive Plan as a guide for growth. The new land use controls will

be consistent with the Wichita Falls Comprehensive Plan.

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One of the major disadvantages Wichita Palls incurred in not having

a comprehensive zoning ordinance has been an inability to limit the extent

of development. To a degree this has resulted in a spawling pattern of

growth which is relatively expensive to service. The implementation of

a Comprehensive zoning ordinance, and its effectiveness, as it is implemented

within existing conditions, will be realized in the near future.

TABLE 2.3 AVERAGE CITY-WIDE LAND USE

Type

* Industrial/commercial/retail

* Public/semipublic

* Right of Way

* Residential

* Vacant land

Acres

1,586

5,704

5,708

7,294

12,050

% of City Total

5%

16%

18%

23%

38%

Total 31,712 100%

Source: Vacant Land Study, City Planning Dept.

land cover and Development: With average city blocks of 300 by 500 feet

in size and street widths of 60 fee t, the total land within Wichita Falls

city limits is 31,712 acres or about 50 square miles.

K mn fPPt deep would represent 10 residencesCity lots 100 feet wide by 150 feet deep wo

4- wif hita Falls' total area of 31,712to a block with full development. Wichita

. iQ f;f2 acres of developed land. This represents 62% ofacres contains 19,662 acres oi

nndeveloped or vacant land within the city limitsits total acreage. Undevelopea u

.. ^ ^ 1 4 8 or 32% of the total land area,amounts to 14B or JS^^

19


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endnotesSIGNIFICANCE OP RECREATION

Theodorson, George A. and Achilles G. Theodorson, A Modern DictionaryOf Sociology (New York: Barnes and Noble, 1969), p.337T ~ ~

2Theodorson, p. 337.

3

urban-Rural Planning and Design Inc., Council Bluffs Open Space andRecreation Plan 1974, p.6 . ~

4Urban-Rural Planning and Design Inc. , p.6 .

5Urban-Rural Planning and Design Inc., p.7.

RECREATION AND THE CITY

Gordon, Lori , "YAAC Ideas on the Greenbelt Area and Recreation Center"Wichita Fa lls, 1985.

7Myrick, Newman, Dahlberg & Partners, Inc., Parks, Recreation and

Open Space Element for Wichita Fa lls, Texas Executive Summary, 1983. p. 803.14.

The Pantus Report, 1983. p. 113.

9Interview with Chris Marvel, April 17 , 1985.

Myrick, p. 803.14.

Myrick, p . 803.14.

12

Myrick, p . 803.14."""Myrick, p. 803.14.

14

Myrick, p . 803.14.

""" Myrick, p. 803.14.

Myrick, p. 803.1417

Myrick, p. 803.14

^^"Project CITY" Rider Marketing and Distributive Eductation Department,

1984, p . l .""" Project CITY, p . 2.

^^Project CITY, p- 35.

21 Project CITY, p. 37.

^^Project CIT Y, P. 53.

23Gordon, p 2.

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THE CITY

24City of Wichita Fal ls, Community Profile, p. 4.

25City of Wichita Pall s, General Plan, p. 1-1 to 1-7.

General Plan, p. 1-3.

27

General Plan, p. 1-1 to 1-7.City of Wichita Falls , Population Element, p.l.

29Population Element, p. l.

30Community Council, An Introduction to Social Issuesiln' ichita County;

The Human Servies Report, June, 1983, p. 7.31

City of Wichita Pa lls, Population Trends, 1984, p.3.32

Population Element, p. 119.33

Population Element, p. 10.

General Pl an, p. 2-1 to 2-13.

35The Pantus Report, p. 35.

" ^City of Wichita Fal ls, Community Profile, p. 5.

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DC


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GOALS OBJECTIVESGOALS OBJECTIVES

-To preserve and develop the optimum -Analyze, interpret and identify the

usage of natural resources in the natural resources and declare-their

area. optimum use for recreation and tourism.

-Protect the riverfront bank from the

damages of unplanned man-made develop

ment.

-Provide easy and safe access to the

riverfront and recreational areas.

-To Provide an enhanced image of the -Unify, integrate and coordinate the

Big Wichita Riverfront.

-To enhance and improve the health

and quality of living in the area.

entire riverfront project into an

aesthetic, kinetic and perceptual

relationship.

-Create and develop riverfront land

marks to serve as focal elements and

represent local and regional images.

-Minimize land, water, air and visual

pollution through landscaping.

-Reduce water and wind erosion of river

banks by providing vegetation, paved

areas, trails and other possible means .

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GOALS OBJECTIVES

-To provide for the interaction of

all age groups by stimulating and

encouraging contact.

-To serve as a youth center where

teenagers of Wichita Palls will

socialize.

-To act as a catalyst for redevelop

ment and growth of downtown Wichita

Falls, particularly the River

Development District, and serve as

a model for the area.

-Integrate a variety of activities

without conflict to achieve a mutually

beneficial relationship.

-Adequately handle traffic and trans

portation to and around site making

facility easily accessible to all age

groups.

-Integrate a variety of activities at

a convenient location not offered

presently in Wichita Falls.

-Secure a suitable environment to

reassure parents of their children's

safety and well being when using the

facility.

-Create a management system which will

coordinate implementation, provide

continuous planning, establish design

control and secure continuity.

-Provide necessary public attention

and serve as a guide for private

investors.

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SITE ANALYSISsite selection

Because of the social, cultural , educational and economic aspects involved,

the selection of the proper site for a community recreation center is of

primary importance. The following factors should be taken into account1

in choosing the site:

1. Proximity to public transportation and availability of parking

facilities. Since the building should attract all kinds of

people, easy access to it is of prime importance.

2. Size of site. The site should be large enough to accomodate

the proposed building, any possible future additions, on-site

parking if required and desired and^outdoor activity space.

3. Visibil ity. The site should be easily seen and easy to find.

There should be adequate road frontage for the building and the

direveway entrances.

Bite objectivesAlmost without exception, recreation areas require some type ofstructure that will fulfill program activities and yet blend aestetically

into its surroundings. After selecting the particular activities in2

accordance with community needs, the site designer should take great care:

1. To avoid conflicts or dangerous conditions in the juxtapositioning

of the various activities.

2. TO provide physical and visual barriers between the recreational

facilities and adjacent uses, such as residential or community

facilities.

3. TO provide adequate parking areas to accomodate both participants

and spectators.

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pools and ponds.

6. Man-made Fe.atures. Documents on site conditions such as buildings,

walls, driv es, curb cuts, hydrants, power pole s, and paving patterns.

Off-site features may include characteristics of surrounding

development such as scale, roof forms, ferestration patterns,

setbacks, mater ials , colors, open spaces, landscaping materials

and patte rns, wall forms and details.

7. Circulation. This presents all vehicular and pedestrial movement

patterns on and around the site. The data includes duration and

peak loads for surrounding vehicular traffic and pedestrian move

ment, bus stops, traffic generators, service truck access and

intermittent traffic (parades, fire truck, routes, concerts at

nearby auditorium). Traffic analysis should include future pro

jections insofar as they can be made.

8. Utili ties. This category deals with the type, capacity and location

of all utilities on , adjacent to and near the site. Typical utility

types include electricity, gas , sewer, water and telephone.

9. Sensory. This documents the visual, audible, tactile and olfactory

apsects of the site . Typical issues are views to and from the site

and noise generated around the site.

10. Human and Cultural. Includes an analysis of the surrounding

neighborhood in terms of cultural, psychological, behavioral and

sociological aspects. This category deals with the activities,

himian relationships and patterns of human characteristics. Issues

here might involve population age, ethnic patterns, values, income

and family sturcture. Vandalism and crime patterns are also

significant in this category.

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11. Climate, Presents all the pertinent climate conditions such as

rainfall, snowfall, humidy and temperature variations over the

months of the year. Also included are prevailing wind directions,

sun path and vertical sun angles as they change over the year and

potent ial natural catastrophes such as tornadoes and etc. It is

helpful to know not only how climate conditions vary over a typical

year but also what the critical conditions might be (maximum daily

rainfall, peak wind velocity, etc.).

architectural contextProject Overview: This site analysis will serve as a guideline for the

planning and design of a new community recreation center along Big Wichita

River in Wichita Fal ls, Texas. The proposed facility will contain approxi

mately 150,000 gross square feet of space and the site will accomodate

approximately 500 cars.

Site Overview: The project site is located in the sector just north of the

original settlement of Wichita Falls. The property is part of the River

front Development Dirstrict (RDD) and fronts a portion of the Big Wichita

River that rims across the center of the city from west to east. The

site is boimded on north by existing and projected single-family residental

development, on the east and wes t by existing commercial development and

projected RDD use ; and on the south by the existing river.

The site is zoned RDD and contains approximately 19 acres of partially

wooded areas. With respect to true north, the land slopes from the northwest

towards the river at the southeast with grades varying from flat to 18%.

All required utilities are available and both the sensory and human aspects

of the site are positive.

Climate Overview: Texas' weather in the rolling plans of the Panhandle to

28


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the Texas Praries is hot-arid, m Wichita Falls, the climate is market

by rapid changes in tempera ture, relatively short periods of extreme heat,

dry atmosphere and erratic rainfall. ^

summers are long and hot and the winters are on the whole relatively mild,

summer temperatures average between 80 and 90 during the three warmest

months from June to August. Minimum temperatures range between 65 and 75

during this time. Maximum temperatures of over 100 are frequent during

the common long periods of hot weather. Winter temperatures can be consid

erably cold. Readings fluctuate between late October and early April, the

cooler months. The average temperature for the coldest month, January, is

o

41 . Sub-zero temperatures occur in about one year in each five year period.

Precipitation is erratic. Over 75% of the annual moisture occurs during

the period from late March to mid-November; but three to four weeks of

dry periods are to be expected during this t ime, the driest during May and

June. The normal rainfall is 27 inches per year, most of it coming in the

form of showers rather than general rains.

Prevailing winds are southerly in the slimmer and northerly in the winter.

Wind speeds vary between 10 and 20 miles per hour during the day and below

10 miles per hour at nigh t. Winds over 20 miles per hour might be dust

laden. Highest wind velocities occur at afternoons from the south, south

east and southwesterly directions . There are frequent tornado alerts and

watches because the city lies on the western edge of the "tornado belt" the

covers Texas , Oklahoma, Arkansas, Nebraska, Kansas, Louisiana and Mississippi.

Oklahoma City, 145 miles northeast of Wichita Falls, lies at the hear of the

tornado be lt.

Constant humidity levels are maintained throughout the year. Morning

humidities average 80 to 9 0% andafternoon humidities drop significantly

to 50 and 60 % averages. Humidity levels are high in late spring and fall

and on summer morn ings , but drops during the worst heat of the summer.

29


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diagrams*****'*'\^.

^' \ WW* . * . - i. * H

^

Map 3.1 Location of the City in the State


43/157


44/157

WTT' iiri . '


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M ap 3 . 4 S i z e a n d Z o n i n g


46/157

Map 3 .5 Legal


47/157

Map. 3.6 Natural Physical Features


48/157

Map 3 . 8 C i r c u l a t i o n


49/157

M ap 3 . 7 M a n -M a de F e a t u r e s


50/157

Map 3.9 Utilities


51/157


52/157

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human life cyclesAll human societies have some concept of LIFE CYCLES, various stages

through which people pass as a function of biological maturation. Humans

are born, attain sexual maturity, and eventually die , just life other/

-7animals. But life cycles are not inherent in nature, they are a human

invention. The reason is that they are a social, not biological, phenomena.

Although they are based on biological changes, the stages of the life

cycle are changes in social status. The terms for these stages-infant,8

child , adolescent, adult and senior citizen are ascriptive statuses.9

These terms are the products of human invention, part of language.

10Infant: At th is state, the younger explorer is discovering his five senses

and creating basic primitive patterns of recreation to the world. His

attention is primarily one-to-one with the parents, but this is declining

as recreation programs for infant and young children are increasingly

being developed.

Child: At th is t ime, the child's attention shifts from his newly acquired

motor skills to more artifical, formal, and goal-oriented behavior regulated

by television, school and toys. The socialized child must be dealt with

according to his problems inherent with their background. The poor,

middle-c lass , and rich child generally all have different ideas of life's

purpose and mus t be lead in a positive direction each in his own context.

At about eight years of age, the child is starting to be recognized for

his own personality. He relishes new organized group activities often

following a scaled down model of society's pastimes (i.e. football games,

little league baseball). Often these activities are overemphasized and

isolation can affect those who do not participate.

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Adolescent. T M s is , tie when experimentation is often tried without

concern for consequences. soe tend to be confused b , societ,.s expect,-

tions Of What they should conform to. Sexual desire is be,ini , and peer

pressure s trong, A few tr-x? -r c-i- i. -, y A rew try to stay children, others try to play adults.

12

Young Adult:- Sexuality fully blooms, and independence from family ties

involve a change of life style. Often unsure of their future and lack of

understanding of themselves and others, sometimes question their adulthood,

soon more goal oriented fun and recreation take place. Some go to college,

some join communes, but most go to work, settle into trades and begin to

lock into a pattern of prepared leisure. Family life soon becomes a reality

for many, and recrea tion and leisure is spent as a group. Material goods

are more readily available and many career goals have been met. Being

a family adult is quite an adjustment though, and occasional professional

help is sought to help bring back the adult's individual identity.13

Older Adult: The older adult usually experiences a change in life in a

mental condi tion. Self analysis of their lives is brought on by boredom,

physiological changes, slights at work, and the realization that one may

never achieve all the goals and commitments made. By retirement age,

leisure life styles are modified by awareness and acceptance of physical

and financial limitations. A great deal of leisure time is spent preparing.

Travel a ffords new challenges and enjoyable interest before total leisure

is forced upon the elderly because of physical reasons. The activity of the

older adult varies widely, depending on health, region of the country, ect.

Table 3.4STAGE AGE

infant birth to 18 mo.child 18 mo. to 13 yrs.adolescent 13 yrs. to 20 yrs.adult 20 yrs. to 65 yrs,

enior citizen 65 yrs. to deaths

Stages in life-span developmentSource: Essentials of Psychology and Life 10th edition P. 167

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Indoor activitiesA C T I V I T YP U R P O S E :

U S E R S :

Handball, Racquetball, Squash

Game pits competitors (2) together in agame of extreme hand-eye coordination.Short exertions of peak physical energy.Point game, no t ime limit .

Usually 15-35 years of age. Singles (1 ),double s (2) or triplets (cut th roa t ) .

LOCATION:Near dressing areas , showers and lockers.Spectator viewing on some courts.

TIME SPAN/FREQUENCY1 to 3 hour sets by reservationlow: Weekdays 8am-llpm; lpm-5pmhigh: Weekdays llam-lpm; 5pm-l0pm

Saturday 8am-l0pm

A C T I V I T YP U R P O S E :

U S E R S :

Basketball*

To toss a round ball through a netted hooptwice the size as the ball . Jimnping ab il ity ,eye to hand coordination and physicalendurance required.

All ages ranging from one to eight playersfor half court and 10 players (5 each team)for full court.

LOCATION: Near dressing rooms , shower and lockers.Spectator viewing on some courts.

T I M E S PA N / F R E Q U E N C Y1 to 3 hours satisfies most players .Regulation 8-15 minute quarters or 24-30minute halfs.

*Indoor/Outdoor

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A C T I V I T YP U R P O S E : Stickball , Hockey, Soccer*

To score by placing ball in opponent'sgoal. Considerable team sport-can beplayed on roller skates.

USERS: Children to young adults. Prom 12 to 22participants. '

LOCATION: Near to ilet, locker room, seating area,control are a, dressing

T I M E S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y came p l a y i s u s u a l l y 1 1/2 h ou r t im e p e r i o d s


Weightlifting

To tone and condition body muscles through

physical exertion and repetitive motion offree weights and/or machine weights .

USERS: Individual use. Class use (groups).Competition us e: 1 lifter, 1 to 5 judges,2 ho lder s, spectators and other competitors.

LOCATION: Near control ar ea, lockers, showers, sauna,exercise ar ea, water fountains.

T I M E S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y g^ch s e t o f e x e r c i s e s : from 5 t o 15 m i n u te s .Total workout : From 1 to 2 hours average.

*Indoor/Outdoor

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A C T I V I T YP U R P O S E ;

U S E R S :

Gymnastics

To develop and train the muscles such thatcontrol and coordination over body movementsis achieved. Individual goals are to competeand excel in areas such as balance beam,floor exercis e, horizontal bars , etc.

Young children to early adult,in some dance activities.

Older adults

LOCATION: Near spectator viewing, water fountains,storage a reas, dressing/locker r ooms.

TIME SPAN/FREQUENCY Team uses and competitive meets.workout.1 hour


U S E R S :

Volley, Badminton

Play an opponent in a match of eye to hand

coordinat ion by keeping (ball/birdie) inplay over a high net by not letting ittouch the floor surface.

Older children to adults.Volleybal l: Teams of 6 preferredBadminton: One on one or doubles.

LOCATION:Near toilets , control, locker, water fountain

T I M E S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y 30 m in u t es t o . h o ur s , p o i n t , a e no t t i e d .

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Wrestling

To struggle hand to hand with an opponent inan attempt to throw or force him to theground without striking blows.

USERS: Teenagers to young adult in group of two.

LOCATION: Near lounge, showe rs, dressing & Lockerarea. Some observation nearby.

T I M E S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y M atches a pp ro x im a te ly 5 t o 15 m i n u t es .Daily use-maximum use on Saturdays.


Roller*/Ice Skating

To control body balance over rolling andice footwear.

USERS: All ages. Individuals and groups.

LOCATION: Near Multi-purpose floor, control area,lobby, toilets and locker areas.

TIME SP AN /FR EQ UE N CY ^a i iy use.average.

Se sions: 1/2 to 1 1/2 hours

*Indoor/Outdoor

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ACTIVITYShowering

PURPOSE: A bath in which the body is cleansedwith fine streams of water from smalljets to rejuvenate the body's energy andrefresh the mind.

U S E R S : All age groups.

L O C A T I O N : Near lockers, dressing, drying, sauna,toilets.

T I M E S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y Fron 5 to is minutes .

A C T I V I T Y D r y i n g

P U R P O S E : ^^ remove exc ess water from skin ti s s u e .

U S E R o : j^-^1 agg groups.

L O C A T I O N : ^ear l o c k e r s , d r e s s i n g , s a un a, t o i l e t sshowers.

TIME SPAN/FREQUENCY ^ ^^ 15 i^mutes.

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Dressing

To prepare for social appearence,on and take off clothing.

To put

USERS: All age groups. Participants in sports/recreation activities that want to changeclothing before and after.

LOCATION: Centrally located near showers , locke rs,and drying areas and toilets.

T I M E S PA N / F R E Q U E N C Y 5 t o 1 5 m i n u t e s .


Clothing, Equipment Storage

To temporarily store personal belongingsin secure place .

USERS: Private personal space for each male orfemale.

LOCATION: N e a r d r e s s i n g , s h o w er a nd d r y i n g a r e a sa n d t o i l e t s .

T I M E S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y u ^^ t t u rn o v e r e ve ry 1/2 ho ur t o 3 h ou rsa v e r a g e . D a i l y u s e .

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Sauna

To relieve muscle tension and relax theuser. Cleanse the body by increasingblock circulation to cause perspiration.

USERS: Adolescents to older adults . From one tosix persons.

LOCATION: Near showers, dressing, lockers, drying,toilets and whirlpool.

T I M E S PA N / F R E Q U E N C Y ^^^ 5 to 20 minutes.


Whirlpool/Spa

To relax body muscles with water movementafter exercise or for therapy.

USERS: Male and female

LOCATION: Near men's and women's dressing rooms.Possible indoor/outdoor use.

T I M E S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y 5 t o 6O m i n u t e s . O a l l y u s e .

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A C T I V I T Y ' * ' ' ' E x c r e t i o n , d e f i c a t i o n o f b od y w a s t e s .

P U R P O S E :To relieve the body of all unusablephysical body matter.

USERS*" One person per unit. Accomodations for

handicap.

LtJVi/A i lU lN . Near dressing rooms , lobby/lounge areas,multi-purpose cour ts, and administrativeareas.

T I M E S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y l t o lO m in ute s a ve ra ge . 1 t o 4 t im e sd a i l y .

A C T I V I T Y J a n i t o r i a l / C u s t o d i a l

P U R P O S E : To r em o v e d i r t o r i m p u r i t i e s i n m a k in gc l e a n . To b r i n g b a c k t o n o r m a l .

U S E R S : S t a f f o r e m p lo y ed p e r s o n n e l .

L O C A T I O N : ^ ^ ^ ^ s t o r a g e , r e s t r o o m s , o u t d o o r a r e a s .

TIME SP A N /F R E Q U E N C Y i to 8 hours dai ly.

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Waiting

To pass or kill time until visitor canbe met with director or other person.Relaxation area.

USERS: Visitors-community users, businessassociates.

LOCATION: Near reception, lobby/lounge, publictoilets, of fices, entry and parkingarea.

TI ME S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y 15 minute wai ti ng maximum. Sam t o 5pmweekdays. Da ily us e.


Typing

To put on paper in legible format meetingnotes, agenda, letters, etc.

USERS: Usually female, young to older adult.

LOCATION: Near reception waiting area and toiletfacilities.

TIME S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y 8am-5pm weekdays . Dai ly use .

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A C T I V I T Y C o n v e r s i n g , L i s t e n i n g , Ta l k i n g , Te a c h in gP U R P O S E :

To communicate ideas from one part to thenext.

U S E R S : Groups o f 2 t o 15 p eo p le .

L O C A T I O N : N e ar r e c e p t i o n , w a i t i n g , c o f f e e b a r ,toilet facilities, offices.

T IM E S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y 8am-5pm we ekd ays. D ai ly u s e .

A C T I V I T Y A r t s a n d C r a f t s

P U R P O S E : M e n t a l p r o c e s s o f c r e a t i n g a p h y s i c a l o b j e c tf rom an idea .

U S E R S * ^^^ ^ 5^' ^'^^ a d u l t s to sm al l c h i l d re n .

L O C A T I O N - N^^^ P^^^^ r e s t r o o m s , v e n d i n g , p h o n e s ,UVV/rt l o b b y a r e a , s t o r a g e .

TIME SP A N /F R E Q U E N C Y Daily: sam-iop.

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A C T I V I T Y L ounging

P U R P O S E :Relieve tension through relaxation ofmental and physical energy.

U S E R S : All ages and sexes.

L O C A T I O N : Near control desk, toilets , lobby,concessions and game room.

TIME SP AN /FRE QU EN CY A H hours daily.

A C T I V I T Y v e n d i n g

P U R P O S E 'run i -K^ wu . . ^^ ^^ ^^ drink and replenish the

body's nutrients.

U S E R S : All ages and sexes.

LOCATION: -- 7,Vji'. '^ " " '"' """''p u r p o s e f l o o r a r e a s .

TIME SP AN /FR EQ UE N CY AII hours dai ly.

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U S E R S :

Table Tennis

To keep ball in play on rectangular tablesurface by striking it with a paddle overa net which divides the table surfaceequally.

Al l ages, 1 to 4 players. Daily use.

LOCATION: Near hameroom, toil ets, lobby/lounge,concession/vending,

TI ME S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y point game not t imes . 10-20 minutesa game average.

ACTIVITY Pool/Billiards

PURPObt rj,Q },nock balls in one of six pockets on aflat table surface by first striking aneutral ball with a cue stick to initiatedirectional movement of player's ball topocket,

USERS: Teenagers to older adults.

LOCATION: Near game room, refreshments, toilets,lounge,

T IME S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y Not a ti me l i mi t game. 5-25 minute saverage per game.

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USERS:

Video Games

To establish eye to hand coordination tostretch the imagination to other worldsand thoughts.

All age groups.

LOCATION:Near toilets, convession/vending, lounge.

TIM E SP AN /FR EQ U EN CY Peak hours3pm-l0pm.

A C T I V I T Y J o g g in g , Walk in g

P U R P O S E :To increase cardiovascular efficiencyby moving along at a slow, steady, jolting

pace or trot.

U S E R S : All ages. Mostly young adult to olderadult,

L O C A T I O N : N ear m u l t i- p u r p o se c o u r t s , d r e s s in g ro om s,w a te r f o u n t a i n s , t o i l e t f a c i l i t i e s .

T I M E S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y 1/2 h ou r t o 2 h o u r s , u s u a l l y e a r l y m orn inga nd l a t e a f t e r n o o n t o e v e n i n g .

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Dancing

Strong social and often emotional contactbetween male/female partners. Releasesemotional tensions and feelings.

USERS:Al l ages. Greatest enjoyment amongteenagers to older adults.

LOCATION:Near public toilets, lobby/lounge, kitchenarea, storage.

TIME SPAN/FREQUENCY 1-6 ho ur s. Maximvmi use on weekendevenings until 2am.*can be used separately from athleticfacilit ies after noirmal working h our s.


General Exercise

To improve cardiovascular efficiency andmuscle tone. To develop eye, hand & footcoordination,

U S E R S : A l l a g e s .

L O C AT I O N : Near dressing rooms, water fountains,toilet facilities, storage.

TIM E S P A N /F R E Q U E N C Y 1/2 hour to 2 hours. Daily use.

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outaoor activitiesA C T I V I T YP U R P O S E :

P a r k i n gTo accomodate variety of transportationvehicles in temporary storage.

U 3 E R S : 1 to 200 automobiles moving at one time,

L O C A T I O N : one node can be near mail facility(within 250') and another at outdoorfields and courts.

TIM E S P A N /F R E Q U E N C Y 7am-12 midnite da ily.

A C T I V I T Y Run ning, W alking , Jumping Cl imbing

P U R P O S E : E x e r c i s e t o b e n e f i t b od y a n d m in d w i t hv a r i e t y of e x e r c i s e s . B o dy m ov em en t a s

t r a n s p o r t a t i o n .

U S E R S : U s u a l l y a n i n d i v i d u a l a c t i v i t y .

L O C A T I O N : N e a r s h a d e , r e s t a nd r e f r e s h m e n t a r e a .

T IM E S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y E a r l y m o r n in g s a nd l a t e a f t e r n o o n s u n t i le v e n i n g .

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Softball/Basebal1

Hit ball with bat to advance runnersaround designated base paths . Completerotation scores run.

USERS: Baseball: Boys 8-15 yr s.Softball: 16 yrs to older adult.

LOCATION: Near water , storage, toilets, seating,night lighting.

T IM E S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y La te sp r ing th ru ea r ly F a l l .Weekdays: 5pm-ll:30pmWeekends: 8am-ll:30pm


Swimming/Diving

To propel body through or into water byfloatation control over body.

U S E R S : A l l a g e s .

L O C AT I O N : Near water, storage, toilets, dressing.Shower/drying, control area.

T I M E S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y n a iiySummer: ^|ani-10pmW in te r : Sam-Spm


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ACTIVITYPURPOSE:

Soccer

To kick ball into opponent's goal.

USERS:Al l ages . Mostly children 6-17 yrs.Parent participation high 18-40 users .

LOCATION: Near storage, toilets, spectator area,water and parking.

T I M E S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y S p r in g /F a l l Leagues.Weekdays: 4:30-l0pmWeekdays: 8am-l0pm

Game 1 to 2 hours.

ACTIVITYPURPOSE;

Football

To keep possession and move ball acrossdesignated area (end zone) for score.One group (team) against another.

USERS: Mens League-FlagWomens League-FlagBoys League-Flag and Tackle11 players on each side=22 players

LOCATION: Near t oilets , spectator area, water andparking.

TI M E S P A N /F R E Q U E N C Y weekdays: 5pm-ll:30pmWeekdays: 8am-ll:30pmGame 1 to 2 hours .

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A C T I V I T Y T en nis *

P U R P O S E :

U S E R S :

To battle an opponent for challenge,exercise and point victory.

All age groupsSingles (one player each)Doubles (two players each)

L O C A T I O N : Near water, parking, toilets.

T I M E S P A N / F R E Q U E N C Y D a i l y : 8am-12pm12pm-12 midnite

1 1/2 reservation periods.


U S E R S :

L O C AT I O N :

T I M E S PA N / F R E Q U E N C Y

* i n d o o r / o u t d o o r

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SPACE SUMMARYGrowt h in the scope and complexity of the recreation program has created

a need for buildin gs whi ch will provide facilities adapted for a wide

variety of recreation acti vities. Unlike many of the early structures,

prese nt day buildings provide for adaptability and multiple use. This

change from the simple to the complex has stimulated the development of a

variet y of recreation build ings. These are classified by function then

categorized by size.

The community recreation building functions beyond the primary purpose

15of serving a single neighborhood. It is designed to offer a more diversified

progr am in order to meet the complete recreational needs of all people in

the commu nit y. The community building is normally larger than a neighborhood

building and is usually located in a major recreational area such as a

16community park or playing field.

As stated earli er, community recreation buildings vary in function

and desig n (as is the case here) but, generally they contain most of the

spaces described on the following page s. The space summary segregates

areas de termined by projected occupancy limits, statutes and conventions.

The STimmaries are grouped into like spaces.

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indoor spacesSPACE

ACTIVE RECREATION

Multi-Purpose CourtsSpectator SeatingStorage

Aquatic Swimming Pool (50m)Diving TankPool Deck/SpectatorEquipment RoomAttendant's OfficePool Storage/JanitorPool Toilets

Machine WeightsFree WeightsBag RoomStorage

Handball/RacquetballSquashCentral Issue and StorageSport Shop

Lockers/DressingShower AreaDrying AreaToiletsSauna

Janitorial StorageMechanical RoomDance/Exercise RoomMulti-Purpose RoomMat RoomStorage

4

44

1

1

11

12

1

111

8211

22222

212112

7980920400

697618904658

500150

150300

12501250

200300

9001200

200200

2300200200400100

1003000360018001800

200

31,9203,6001,600

37,200

6,9761,8904,658

500150

150600

14,924

1,2501,250

200300

3,000

7,2002,400

33020010,130

4,600. 400

400800200

6,400

2003,0007,2001,8001,800

40011,200

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S PA C E UNITS UNIT AREA TOTAL AREA

Ice Skating/Hoc key (200'85'rink) 2

Shoe Change, Storage and SpectatorsSkate Rental/Repair 1Concessions 1Roller SkatingShoe Change, Storage and SpectatorsSkate Rental/Repair 1Concessions 1

Dancing 1Dancing 1Concessions 2

Restrooms 2Office 1

Total Indoor Active Recreation

3600

4250250200

150006000

250200

20002000

200

200120

7,

4,

15,6,

43

22

4

134

,200

,250250200

,000,000250200

,150

,000,000

400

400120,920

,124

PASSIVE RECREATION

Lobby/LoungePublic RestroomsCheck-in-Desk

OfficeDirector 's OfficeOffice Storage

GameroomConce s s ion/VendingMulti-Purpose RoomMulti-Purpose Room Storage

KitchenKitchen Storage

Club Room/StorageArts and Crafts RoomPhotographyStorageNurseryLibrary/Quiet AreaSenior Citizens Area

Total indoor Passive RecreationTOTAL INDOOR RECREATION

121

111

111211

2111111

1200200150

150175150

2000200

3000100400100

500500120100

1125600300

1,200400150150175150

2,225

2,000

2003,000

200400100

5,900

1,200600120100

1,125600300

4,045

12,170146,294

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outdoor spacesS PA C E UNITS UNIT AREA TOTAL AREA

ACTIVE RECREATION

TennisFootball/Soccer/LacrosseBasketball /VolleyballSoftball

Children's Play Area

Total Outdoor Active Recreation

4163

1

720093,100

4,70075,625

30 ,000

28,93,28,

226,

30

,800,100,200,875

,000

406,976 or9,33 acres

PASSIVE RECREATION

AmphitheatreBicycle trailsWalk/jogscenic AreaOutdoor Games(horseshoes, etc)Outdoor Picnic Area

1n/an/an/an/an/a

Parking146.294 sf T 300 sf/car =487,64 or 488 cars

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SYSTEMS PERFORMANCE CRITERIAStructural

All structura l systems shall conform to the requirements of the Uniform17

Building Code.

The multi -pur pose cour ts, swimming enclosure and handball/racquetball

courts shall be free from interior columns. The handball/racquetball courts

shall have no structural elements project into the playing enclosure.

Structural element s in or near the pool area shall be corrosion resistant.

The structure beneath the ice skating area shall be thermally isolated

from other porti ons of the building structure. The structure shall be

designed to allow expansion and contraction of the ice skating surface and

structure with out impinging on other structural elements. The roller

skating structural floor shall be acoustically isolated to prevent the

transmission of structure borne noises produced by roller skates.

The structural floor under those areas where free weights and weight

machines are shall be designed to withstand the impact loads resulting from

the use of such weights.

mechanicalControl of hu midity in the locker areas, indoor sports facilities,

pool area and ice skating area will be of prime importance.The capability for a one hundred percent exhausting of return air from

18steamy and odo r produ cing spaces shall be provided. The mechanical system

for the swimming pool enclosure shall have a variable intake system to

allow for up to 10 0% outd oor air to be utilized,' Mechanical elements

serving the swimming pool and exposed to the action of salts used in water

treatment plac es shall be n on-corro sive? Air velocities in those spaces

occupied by wet persons shall be designed to avoid chilling due to high air

1 . . 21velocities.

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The mec hani cal system for dining and other food establishments shall

be designe d t o handle the extremely variable loading conditions. The food

prep arat ion areas w ill produce high odor concentrations and high sensible

heat gai ns due to ga s, steam and electrical appliances. The unbalanced

loading conditio ns between the food prep areas and the dining areas should

be handled in an efficient, economical manner. Conditions in the kitchen

should no t a ffect the comfort and convenience of the patrons in the

22establishment,

Spaces containing an active space and a passive space shall have