CC - Item 5A - Update on Skate Plaza DevelopmentROSEMEAD CITY COUNCIL
STAFF REPORT
TO: THE HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
FROM: JEFF ALLRED, CITY MANAGER //Yi�j
DATE: DECEMBER 9, 2014 �;/fj�l
SUBJECT: UPDATE ON SKATE PLAZA DEVELOPMENT
SUMMARY
As previously discussed at City Council meetings in October and November, staff has
been working to develop a plan to build a skate plaza in Rosemead. At the November 10,
2014 meeting, the Council directed staff to move forward with a plan to develop a skate
plaza at Rosemead Park in the area to the west of the Rosemead Aquatics Center. As
part of the ongoing discussion and conceptual development, staff has been working with
the Street League Foundation, a 501c3 non - profit corporation, to assist in funding and
developing the plaza. The Street League Foundation and its partner, California
Skateparks, are developing a proposal for the design and construction management
services for the project. Details regarding their role and financial contribution are being
developed, and it is anticipated that a contract will be presented for consideration at the
first City Council meeting in January 2015.
Since this project would be funded by the bond proceeds of the former Community
Development Corporation, this project will need to be confirmed by the Rosemead
Oversight Board at their January or February meeting. Once confirmed, the design of the
project will begin in February, and will include input from the youth in the community
through online feedback and a community meeting.
Staff Recommendation
No action is required. This is a receive and file item.
DISCUSSION
After reviewing all City owned locations for space to develop a skate plaza, staff identified
two areas at Rosemead Park as potential sites for the development of a skate plaza. The
first discussed area is the open space between the basketball courts and the parking lot
in the northern end of the park. There were identified challenges in this area, namely the
proximity to the residences across the street and the reduction in available space due to
the presence of three large oak trees, making this spot less than ideal.
ITEMNO.. /R
City Council Meeting
December 9, 2014
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The second location is adjacent to the southern parking lot and the Rosemead Aquatic
Center. This spot provides the necessary space, does not require the removal of mature
trees or picnic areas, and is visible from the street but is far removed from residences.
Additionally, this area has an existing grade change that is beneficial to the flow of a skate
plaza and will contribute to the development of the plaza's features. The use of this site
would require the removal of the existing multipurpose pad that was constructed as part
of the jogging trail installation several years ago. The rubberized material on this pad has
been significantly damaged and is in need of costly repair or removal. Based on the
observed uses of this pad, and the lack of durability of the surface, it would be
recommended that these activities be redirected to the plentiful grass area.
The City Council reviewed two conceptual drawings for the space adjacent to the
Rosemead Aquatics Center at the November 10, 2014 meeting and directed staff to move
forward with the development of a skate plaza. Input was received from the Council and
residents regarding the safety concern of individuals using the existing walking trail, safety
for users of the ball field to the north of the proposed location, and the need for possible
fencing or lights for security purposes. All of these concerns will be explored during the
development of a final plan for the plaza.
The final design will include a first class facility that will be designated as a Street League
Certified Skate Plaza. The Street League Certified designation will distinguish the type of
features in the plaza and the materials and methods used in the construction. Additionally,
with the Street League Certification, comes notoriety and distinguishability from
skateboard facilities in other communities, promotional support and community
engagement, and the potential to host events. With assistance from the Foundation and
California Skateparks, the plaza will be designed and developed in coordination with the
community's youth and contain features that are attractive and desirable to the
skateboarding community.
PUBLIC NOTICE PROCESS
This item has been noticed through the regular agenda notification process.
Submitted By:
Matth w E. FMwkesworth
Assistant City Manager /Acting Director of Public Works