Document Arvada_doc_3bc010a9bb

Gold Strike Park SCHEMATIC DESIGN Survey #1 SUMMARY 06.23.2023 ---PAGE BREAK--- 2 “ Gold Strike Park SCHEMATIC DESIGN Survey #1 Summary Gold Strike Park – Survey #1 Open from April 13 to June 5, 2023 321 respondents KEY TAKE-AWAYS Two-thirds of the 361 survey respondents have visited Gold Strike Park. Of those respondents that have visited the park as a destination, most are passing through the park to get somewhere else, and 38% are coming to be near Ralston Creek or Clear Creek. The most significant barriers to visiting the park are not knowing where it is located and not having a reason to visit. Ninety percent of survey respondents were from Arvada with the remaining ten percent of respondents residing in Denver, Wheatridge, Westminster, Lakewood and Golden. Respondents valued the five park planning themes of play, gather, grow, connect, and learn equally. The following highlights the respondents’ top choices* of those themes. PLAY: What play elements and play experiences would you like to see added to the park? • 79% of respondents would like to see nature play elements that are linked to the two creek corridors. • Approximately half of the respondents equally chose that they would like to see nature play elements that are linked to gold panning and the history of the area and playful elements along the trail. GATHER: What elements would improve community gathering opportunities in the park? • 72% of respondents would like to see creek overlook in the park. • 58% of the respondents equally chose that they would like the City to provide seating along the trail as well as small picnic areas in the park. *See “Survey Results” for complete responses to select Survey #1 Questions. My first visit (to Gold Strike Park) was to explore the historical component and documentation at the site, which could be improved. Since then, it is a nice stopping off point to walk my dog, and an uncrowded area to sit by the burbling Ralston Creek and relax. Bike Friendly Arvada often parks and meets there to begin rides - a great spot to go multiple routes. Currently this area seems like a pass-through. It’s not a destination for me or anyone else I know. We tend to pick parks based on its features and if it has facilities for gathering to play games or participate in an outdoor activity. It would be cool to have permanent sluice boxes in the stream with signage explaining how and where to look for gold. Really, really love the idea of natural playgrounds that are beautiful and engaging for people of all ages! So, so good! ---PAGE BREAK--- 3 “ • Approximately one-third of the respondents equally chose that they would like to see a community pavilion, flexible market and event space, and gathering lawn. GROW: How would you like to see habitat enhanced and restored in the park? • 83% of respondents would like to see native wildflower habitats to support pollinators. • 69% of respondents would like to see an expanded tree canopy for shade and habitat. • 61% of respondents would like to experience places to explore at the confluence of Ralston and Clear Creeks. • Approximately half of the respondents equally chose that they would like to see bird and bat nest boxes and places to explore improved stream habitat. CONNECT: How should trails be improved in the future?: • Approximately 59% of the respondents equally chose that they would like to see soft trails for walking and nature observation, new regional trail connections, and a new creek crossing. • Approximately 40% of the respondents equally chose that they would like to see the following improved: signage and wayfinding, trail lighting, street crossings at trail intersections, and ADA accessibility. LEARN: Educational and historical signage and elements should include the following themes: Over 50% of the respondents chose that they would like to see the following educational themes in the park: • Habitat, ecology, animal, wildlife, and pollinator education • Indigenous and ancestral history • Gold panning and prospecting • Pollinator habitat and education • Animal and wildlife viewing The location of this park, being situated amongst industrial buildings, would not make it a frequently visited area for Arvada citizens. For this reason, I think the park should be focused on reestablishment/conservation of native Colorado habitat. Step areas at the confluence, where people can sit and just watch the commingling of waters, or meditate to the sound of water. As a women, I have been very uncomfortable riding my bike thru the area by myself. It would be great to be able to draw more organized activity to the area, such as organized sports or open markets to make the area safer for all. I would love to see a space that is more inviting to community members and not just a pass- through for runners and bikers. Improved signage designating the site as where gold was first discovered in Colorado, and the efforts of the Arvada Historical Society, especially Lois to determine it is so. Houseless neighbors is a BIG issue in this area. It needs to be addressed. ---PAGE BREAK--- 4 Respondents shared their top desires for improvements at Gold Strike Park and were given the opportunity to write in their own comments and suggestions. The following summarizes the key items from respondents. • The majority of respondents would most like to see the river and upland habitats restored at the park. • Approximately a third of the respondents would like to see improved regional trail connections and for the City to provide more shade and a community restroom. • Over a quarter of respondents would like to see improved lighting or other security elements. • Of the 106 write in comments and suggestions, 26% had concerns regarding the unhoused population in the park, and 19% thought the park should celebrate and memorialize the history of the site and the city of Arvada. • 13% of write-in respondents also equally would like to see the City preserve and enhance the ecology and natural habitat of the park, address safety concerns, and improve trails within the park and trail access to the park. “ How about interpretive elements or public art visible by the *thousands* of daily G Line passengers as they travel over Ralston Creek and the Ralston Creek trail at the site? …Huge potential! Wetlands, rain gardens, and water drainage educational information. This is the confluence of Arvada’s two major creeks. The hydrological system is just as important as pollinator habitat! ADA is more than wheelchairs! Benches etc for people to rest while walking. Thank you for involving us and for the thoughtful options, I’m so excited. I love the idea of it being a very natural space tucked in this area of Arvada. I envision a park that welcomes all. Children, Senior Citizens, those with disabilities, nature lovers, and the birds and animals that the park is home to. ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 5 Q1 I Have you ever visited Gold Strike Park? ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 6 Q2 I What draws you to Gold Strike Park? (Check all that apply.) ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 7 1. It is my starting point for a bike ride down the Ralston Creek Trail. I park there and ride as far as I can, then ride back. 2. Bike 3. I was on City Council when we designated the park. 4. Interested because I was on city council when it was designated a park. Parks need to be able to serve the interests of the people using it. This spe- cial park also should have a historical background that can tell the story of the first Gold found in Colorado. 5. Charles Parson sculptures 6. My first visit was to explore the historical compo- nent and documentation at the site, which could be improved. Since then, it is a nice stopping off point to walk my dog, and an uncrowded area to sit by the burbling Ralston Creek and relax. 7. I use it while waiting for businesses in the area 8. Bike Friendly Arvada often parks and meets there to begin rides - a great spot to go multiple routes. 9. Walking by myself or usually with my dog to enjoy the flora and wildlife along the Ralston Creek path. 10. Running 11. Running 12. Birding 13. In its current form, Gold Strike Park is NOT a hospitable, comfortable, community-oriented place. It's a bare, mostly treeless, overly sunny place that Ralston Creek Trail cust through with ugly, meaningless "sculptures". I would love to see this historic place turned from an armpit into a true community gathering spot with creek access, GREEN not dead grass, shade trees, and a wel- coming picnic spot. As it is, it is a disgrace to our lovely city. Please make it better! Q2 I What draws you to Gold Strike Park? (“Other” responses) 14. I visit the park to see where the first gold strike was! It's an historic site and should be treated better. 15. Park and ride bicycle from there. 16. We visit the different parks in the area to walk the dog, have a picnic or just enjoy a walk in the outdoors. 17. History of the beginning of Arvada and the com- munity 18. Because of the historical gold strike 19. I am interested in the history of the discovery of gold at the site. 20. This is the site of an important historical event - the discovery of gold in 1850 and that should always be highlighted in whatever plans the city makes. 21. To see where gold was discovered 22. I use it as a trailhead to take clear creek trail or ralson creek trail. 23. Just for parking for the trail 24. Dog walking 25. The park, though far away, was recently discov- ered 26. Just curious. Went a couple of times and have not been back 27. I Work in the area 28. Dog Walking 29. To show visiting friends (from out of state) where the first Colorado Gold Strike occurred. 30. I like the historical significance. Good for visiting family and friends. The following are the specified responses for the “other” option under Question 2. ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 8 Q3 I What has limited your interest in or ability to visit Gold Strike Park in the past? (Check all that apply.) ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 9 Q3 I What has limited your interest in or ability to visit Gold Strike Park in the past? (“Other” responses) 1. It looks sketchy and not much like a park. I’m interested in it from a historical perspective. 2. Reputation / Rumor of being an area of drug use & crime 3. Too far from my home, plenty of nicer areas closer to home. That area isn’t exactly the best location anymore, homeless populations living in the park and along both waterways. Also it’ll have some days when air quality is poor from being so close to the highway. 4. Just moved here! 5. I’ve only noticed the bridge—I didn’t realize there was a full park there to enjoy. 6. Didn’t know it existed. No idea there’s a park there. 7. Literally never heard of it 8. The industrial character of the area 9. HIGH CRIME 10. I’ve heard it’s haven for the homeless. 11. I hadn’t heard of the park before. 12. I’ve only ever passed through following the Ralston Creek Trail 13. The area is not inviting, also has a lot of strange looking vehicles that do not seem safe always parked there, so the safety of the park is not there. 14. I drive past it all the time, but it is not a destina- tion. 15. Didn’t know about it 16. Sketchy area The following are the specified responses for the “other” option under Question 3. ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 10 Q4 I PLAY: If new play elements are added to Gold Strike Park, what sort of play experiences would you like to see? (Check all that apply.) ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 11 1. Skatepark. 2. Pickleball courts, community garden 3. Small fenced in doggie play area 4. I think the section to the NE of Ralston Creek, which abuts the light industrial area to the it’s East is very well suited to be a small dog park. These days, many workplaces are more dog friendly, yet in light industrial zones especially, there is very little space suitable to exercise a dog, particularly off leash. Good fencing some groundwater control grading to control runoff and shade/water facili- ties there would get a good bit of use is my guess 5. Keep it Gold Strike and Gold themed! It would be cool to have permanent sluice boxes in the stream with signage explaining how and where to look for gold 6. A place to just sit and enjoy the scenery. 7. NAURE TRAILS ONLY 8. See ideas at Heart of the City Playground (931) 526-2211 9. Dog walking in natural elements. Please no more KID playgrounds! 10. It would be great to see some MTB features that could contribute to the rest of the tail system. Westminster and other city’s add a gravel area to the side of the paved trail for running and dog walking area this would be easy to apply. 11. Public art or interpretive elements to highlight Lewis Ralston’s gold find and the significance for Arvada and Colorado (including the early find’s role in the eventual gold rush that led to Colorado statehood.) John Lowery Brown’s entry is wonder- ful: “Lay bye. Gold found. We called this Ralston’s creek because a man of that name found gold here.” June 22, 1850. 12. I think something that incorporates the river is essential 13. Shaded picnic areas or small picnic pavilion. 14. Keep it natural 15. Picnic tables. 16. Those are all terrible ideas. They look like Ralston Splash Pad which is awful. 17. Dog park!! 18. Lazy river 19. Pickleball courts 20. Additional recreational features are fine, so long as the history of the site is featured in a prominent display - interpretive panels, etc. 21. Enhanced signage and commemoration of the historical event that took place there along with something to honor Lois who brought that lost history to light and worked diligently to have that fact accepted and to get the city to pur- chase the land for the park. If not for her, neither exist. 22. Several areas where historical information is post- ed or displayed or incorporated. 23. Nature, places for birds and wildlife (turtlesetc) 24. tennis courts 25. Restrooms 26. None of the above. Gold Strike is not located near residential areas. 27. More patrol to keeping homeless away 28. Off leash dog exercise area 29. Seems the whole reason for this site has been overlooked by the planners, an emphasis on the important history - this site specific influence and the making of the state. A monument for Lois honoring her for her dedication and preservation of this site is a must. 30. 300-foot tall gentle slope with no wind obstruc- tions. 31. Pickleball court/s 32. Active features for adults such as climbing walls, pickleball courts, etc. 33. Adequate number of covered and uncovered pic- nic tables and a larger covered picnic pavilion for larger groups of people. BBQ pit at larger pavilion would be desirable. Restroom facilities would be desirable. Q4 I PLAY: If new play elements are added to Gold Strike Park, what sort of play experiences would you like to see? (“Other” responses) The following are the specified responses for the “other” option under Question 4. ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 12 34. keeping things to a natural state would help sup- port the historical value that this area represents. 35. I think the historical aspects should be displayed around the park. Lois did so much work and needs to be recognized for her contributions. Gold was discovered in the area, that’s a big his- torical piece to be recognized. 36. Signage about the founding and history of thep- ark. 37. I would like to see a History Walk with informa- tion from the Arvada Historical Society used to enhance the history of the area, especially the discovery of gold in Arvada. Q4 I PLAY: If new play elements are added to Gold Strike Park, what sort of play experiences would you like to see? (“Other” responses, continued) ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 13 Q5 I GATHER: If new gathering or community spaces are added to Gold Strike Park, what would you like to see accommodated? (Check all that apply.) ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 14 1. Skatepark 2. Restrooms 3. Still want outdoor movie nights in Arvada. Need more publicity to locals! 4. Keep it natural 5. Dog park!! 6. 2 things. First there needs to be toilet facilities. Since the facilities have been removed, people no longer want to meet there for bike rides. Slow, older riders now have to bike another 15-20 min- utes before they can reach a facility. Second, with the metro area being a leader in theft of cars and catalytic converters, parking should be adjacent to the street where cars can be seen, and it should be lit, so bikers that leave or arrive before or after sunset can be safe. 7. Step areas at the confluence, where people can sit and just watch the commingling of waters, or meditate to the sound of water. 8. It would be very appropriate to have historical references integrated into these elements 9. Events to learn about the history of the park 10. wildlife and nature 11. Better facilities for the homeless 12. More patrol to keep homeless away 13. Bike racks and bathrooms 14. Paddle boarding 15. Any and all these possible uses are great. De- pending on funds, might need to prioritize most important/valuable to public. 16. we need to keep this as natural as possible to support the historical value of the area. 17. Once again, all the history needs to be part of anything added to the park. 18. History of gold discovery information panels 19. Historical information should be included to honor those who came before us. Lois was very active in getting information for the Arvada Historical Society and I would like to see her lega- cy honored. Q5 I GATHER: If new gathering or community spaces are added to Gold Strike Park, what would you like to see accommodated? (“Other” responses) The following are the specified responses for the “other” option under Question 5. ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 15 Q6 I GROW: If there are new habitat areas added to Gold Strike Park, what would be most important to you? (Check all that apply.) ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 16 1. Design areas so that they cannot be used for overnight camping. 2. Emphasis should be in this area. No ideas that as- sist the environment should be dismissed without some thought. 3. Especially trees and grassy non-paved trails! I moved from Missouri and I’m having trouble find- ing shady unpaved trails. 4. Habitat to attract beavers and muskrats. 5. all of this is very important. Re-connection of the creek to their floodplain with a stacked function of education and trail. Remove all that grouted riprap and stream restrictive hardscape. let the stream be a stream and move about in it’s floodplain. and increase wildlife access 6. It would be great to see some MTB features that could contribute to the rest of the tail system. Westminster and other city’s add a gravel area to the side of the paved trail for running and dog walking area this would be easy to apply. 7. care for the riprarian areas 8. You already cut down all the trees a few years ago. 9. More information at the confluence of the import- ant historical event that took place there. 10. Water wildlife access to nature for handicapped-- not just people in wheelchairs but people not in wheelchairs with limited mobility 11. More patrol to keep homeless away 12. Information about all the native plants! Would be great to go see what grows well and why. 13. History of gold strike. 6/22/1850. Arvada Historical Society & Lois on plaques. 14. bee & butterfly homes and native plants to attract these beneficial insects, birds 15. keeping it as natural as possible to represent the historical value. Q6 I GROW: If there are new habitat areas added to Gold Strike Park, what would be most important to you? (“Other” responses) 16. I love all of ideas that are presented here, but until the homeless situation in the area and along the trail is rectified, whatever is put in will be overtak- en by them. 17. I believe being a native from Arvada that the histo- ry and agricultural background of our city is being lost. With all the new residents moving into the city I feel it is especially important to maximize our relationship to our roots and minimize the impact on our environment. We need to realize that would we do today will greatly impact our future gener- ations and they need to know the importance of this area and the responsibility we have to share the land with the birds and animals within the park. The following are the specified responses for the “other” option under Question 6. ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 17 Q7 I CONNECT: If there are new trail improvements added to Gold Strike Park, what would be most important to you? (Check all that apply.) ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 18 1. The less lighting the better for birds please. 2. Gold Strike Park must be accessible from the RTD Gold Strike Station. It’s completely isolated from public transit now. 3. Complete the missing link in the Ralston Creek trail between Olde Wadsworth and Secrest Dr!! 4. Hoping for a place to appear as natural as possi- ble. 5. How about interpretive elements or public art visible by the *thousands* of daily G Line passen- gers as they travel over Ralston Creek and the Ralston Creek trail at the site? Maybe holographic re-enactments of Lewis’s gold find along the creek outside the window of the train, or the Brown diary entry. Artists would have wonderful ideas for this sort of experiential installation. Huge potential! 6. Keep it natural 7. A pump track would reflect community values and attract the community in a manner that is not yet been fulfilled. . 8. better walking access from the Columbine neigh- borhood!!! 56th ave and marshall are not walk- able/friendly, and it would be so nice to be able to walk to the park from this neighborhood. 9. Dog park! 10. Don’t lose the history. None of these choices involve the history. 11. Again, use this opportunity to inform and educate users about Arvada’s rich history 12. New signage for the gold discovery and Lois Lind- strom part of creating the park 13. ADA is more than wheelchairs! Benches etc for people to rest while walking 14. Homeless 15. All of these would be welcomed improvements! 16. Don’t forget the history and Lois’ impact in all of this! 17. I am not in favor of a creek crossing. I think the water is to be enjoyed from the trails and land. To encourage the children to have access to the water is dangerous. I remember as a young girl in the 1960’s the Reno ditch ran close to our house. I was told to stay away from venturing too close, which I choose not to heed and ended up regret- ting my choice. Water and children can pose a safety hazard. 18. Water station Q7 I CONNECT: If there are new trail improvements added to Gold Strike Park, what would be most important to you? (“Other” responses) The following are the specified responses for the “other” option under Question 7. ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 19 Q8 I LEARN: If there is new educational signage or storytelling elements added to Gold Strike Park, what themes would you like to see represented? (Check all that apply.) ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 20 1. How many cities can say “gold was found here” so base more of the learning around gold panning and sluicing 2. Wetlands, rain gardens, and water drainage edu- cational information. This is the confluence of Ar- vada’s two major creeks. The hydrological system is just as important as polinator habitat! 3. Culture would include art. 4. Historical aspects of the first gold strike, etc. 5. New and improved historical signage about the important historical event that took place there. Remember, historical markers and designations bring new people to the area, not just bikers pass- ing through. 6. Keep and maintain the public art on site; our fami- ly loves the piece that’s currently at the park. 7. Homeless 8. covered wagon, hands on historic encampment interactive site - anything with the historic ties to this important historic location 9. Dedication to Lois - my 1st grade teacher 10. What a great avenue for the history of the park. You have a great chance to tell all about the histo- ry of gold planning and the role this park played in the history of the City. 11. Lois advocacy work over many years for the park. 12. Creation and history of the park, concluding em- phasis on first document gold find in Colorado. 13. A plaque commemorating Lois effort to have Arvada recognized as the place where the first gold strike took place in Colorado. A back- ground into her accomplishments and the history of the gold strike and what it meant for Arvada. 14. Information on gold panning and how important that was for Arvada’s development. Q8 I LEARN: If there is new educational signage or storytelling elements added to Gold Strike Park, what themes would you like to see represented? (“Other” responses) The following are the specified responses for the “other” option under Question 8. ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 21 Q9 I What top 3 experiences would like to have at Gold Strike Park? ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 22 Q10 I What would you like to see improved at Gold Strike Park? (Check your top three options.) ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 23 1. Acquire private real estate witin the 100-year FEMA flood plain and add this land to the park and river greenway. 2. ADA 3. native plants, restore habitat, education about TRASH and Littering! 4. PERMANENTLY get rid of the homeless camps 5. Community culture. Art installations that comple- ment the space. 6. It would be great to see some MTB features that could contribute to the rest of the tail system. Westminster and other city’s add a gravel area to the side of the paved trail for running and dog walking area this would be easy to apply. 7. See other comments. 8. I live in Homestead Park, the elephant in the room is the homeless encampment very near this pro- spective park right? It was taken down once and it came back, it’s not considered safe to use the trail as is. I would never go right now. 9. Remove homeless people and trash 10. The “ why” of Gold Strike, that it was the FIRST gold found in Colorado and by Lewis Ralston and his party. The history of this importance to Arvada and our City history. A note of the dedication of Lois to find this history and the phenomenal impact for Arvada. Signage that denotes this information so not forgotten. 11. Clean up the homeless encampments along the trail in that area so it feels safe. 12. History! Why don’t any of your questions include the history? 13. Strong elements that identify Arvada’s history. After all, this is where it started!! 14. Improve the current historical signage and im- prove the land 15. The piece of sculpture at the park is amazing, and it should be incorporated into the design. 16. Homeless Homeless Homeless Homeless Home- less Homeless Homeless 17. honor the historic significance and Lois for her vision to preserve it 18. Currently this area seems like a pass-through. It’s not a destination for me or anyone else I know. We tend to pick parks based on its features and if it has facilities for gathering to play games or participate in an outdoor activity. 19. Improved signage designating the site as where gold was first discovered in Colorado, and the efforts of the Arvada Historical Society, especially Lois to determine it is so. Q10 I What would you like to see improved at Gold Strike Park? (“Other” responses) The following are the specified responses for the “other” option under Question 10. ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 24 Q11 I Are there any other comments or suggestions for Gold Strike Park that you’d like to share with the design team? (General public comments & suggestions.) ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 25 Q11 I Are there any other comments or suggestions for Gold Strike Park that you’d like to share with the design team? (General public comments & suggestions.) The following is all the write-in comments/ sugges- tions provided through the public survey. The table to the right illustrates the larger themes that came out of the general public comments and sugges- tions. 1. 1) Please improve safety - this area turned into a camping site for homeless; 2) Please enforce the leash law on the trail and in the park; 3) I think both can be accomplished by increasing usage, having public events and enforcing the laws” 2. Maybe include one of those bicycle tire pumping and tool stations. 3. Screening from the junkyard next door. The curb appeal of this park is really rough. 4. You will have to be cognizant of the fact, homeless people live on the Clear Creek River banks, enter- ing and exiting at the base of Gold Strike Bridge! They have trashed the trail head parking lot and Port potty, when it was there. However, they still frequent the Bridge and surrounding landscape. 5. Seems like erosion/flood mitigation is needed at the underpass. 6. Make it a more welcoming space. A cleanup is a great first step 7. Focus on improvements that are environmentally sound with thought to providing a safe habitat for local wildlife. Do not assist homeless populations by building them free access to services or shelter. 8. Preserving natural spaces and habitats should be a priority for the long term viability of our climate. Expanding the trail access and connectivity (and safety through better street crossings) is also very important to making the area more bikable and walkable. 9. I think it’s important for nature preservation to be a priority, and for all other priorities to be centered on natural preservation and connecting to it/ learning about it. 10. I am most interested in highlighting the historical and ecological aspects of the confluence. 11. Stop wasting tax payer money on parks, fix the roads! KEY WORDS/THEMES # OF COMMENTS SAFETY homeless 28 law enforcement/patrol/presence 12 leash laws 1 lights 1 AMENITIES trails/pathways 13 creek access 9 natural playgrounds (including bouldering) 5 trash 5 dog friendly 4 pickleball 3 all ages play/playground 3 interpretive area/public art 3 restroom 2 picnic tables 2 bike parking/station 2 pump track/BMX 2 car parking 2 sledding hill 1 ADA 1 WELCOMING clean up 5 general welcoming/destination 5 screening/trees 1 EVENTS public events 6 RESTORATION environment/ecology/habitat additions and concerns 14 shade/trees 5 erosion/flood mitigation/stream enhancements 3 no park here 1 HISTORY historical aspects 20 REGIONAL wayfinding 2 ACQUISITION acquire parcels 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 26 Q11 I Are there any other comments or suggestions for Gold Strike Park that you’d like to share with the design team? (General public comments & suggestions, continued.) 12. In the past, there have been homeless camps on the east side of Clear Creek just before the confluence with Ralston Creek. I hope that further development of the park can be worked out with finding housing for the homeless. 13. The interpretive area seems more well suited for the portion to the SW of the diagonal that Ralston Creek cut’s through the parcel. The NE section is less used by wildlife, already lacks much turf, nat- ural or otherwise. and is less like to be significantly disrupted by an off leash area. Managing runoff so near to Ralston Creek in an off leash area subject to a concentration of feces deposits, as dog parks experience in spite of the best efforts of land use managers, will be a key. Shade will also be critical to dogs in our environment, and trees would en- hance the section and provide aviary roosts. 14. “Keep it gold strike themed. This is a big piece of Arvada’s history and not something most cities can say. So make a big deal that “gold was found here”. Maybe even allow for small hobby panning (No sluicing) for kids and parents to try. Dump in some fools gold to excite kids to think they “found gold” Also this area is kind of a dumpy area and I wouldn’t feel safe with my wife and kids there at night. Not only does it need to be made safer it needs regular police patrols. Keep the homeless cities away. Post signs, have lots of lights, police patrols, etc but don’t let it get ruined like a lot of other areas along Ralston Creek” 15. Excited to see this become a proper park. As a consistent user of the trail, the empty dirt space and odd artwork doesn’t really pay homage to the location where gold was initially found in Colora- do. My biggest worry is that there is a substantial homeless population that lives around the Clear Creek edge of the park, and any implementation (bathrooms or shelters in particular) could quickly become unsafe for youth and child use. 16. Clean up and replant area under the bike/pedes- trian bridge. Create foot paths to areas under the bridge and along the creek. Remove homeless encampments along the bike trail and patrol area for reaccuring camp sites. 17. Safety of those using the area. 18. The area along the bike path has been taken over by questionable people in the past 3 years. As a women, I have been very uncomfortable riding my bike thru the area by myself. It would be great to be able to draw more organized activity to the area, such as organized sports or open markets to make the area safer for all. 19. Find a way to keep the homeless from taking it over. 20. Anything that deterrers homeless camps; 21. I hope to see more areas to enjoy the habitat and expand the habitat as much as possible. The city of Golden did a great job with their areas and so did Westminster and I would like to see something similar 22. Shade and access to creek 23. The area is home to many unhoused people and groups. The trash/left-behind junk problem will continue to mar the area. How will you address the impact of this on community improvements? The trolley location on Grandview was recently dropped due to the fear that the homeless would camp in the trolley car. If you put picnic or gather- ing spaces in, what is to prevent this from becom- ing a permanent homeless facility? 24. “I think that the Ralston Creek Greenway ap- proaching the park could also use some improve- ments. I am unlikely to ever drive here, but if the greenway path were more attractive and better connected to the west of Wadsworth, I would like- ly begin walking the eastern part of the greenway path to the confluence (which I never do today). I appreciate the focus on improving Gold Strike Park, but I’d also like to see Arvada focus on the rest of the Ralston Creek greenway. We fail the health and safety of our citizens when we allow homes and businesses to remain in the high-haz- zard and 100-year flood zones. Other local cities, like Boulder, opt to buy-out houses when they come up for sale in these areas to expand their river greenways - this is good public policy. There are gaps in the Ralston Creek greenway (specif- ically between Olde Wadsworth and Secrest Dr) that could be patched if the city took the initiative to buy-out these kinds of properties.” ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 27 25. Trees and more natural effects 26. Eco-Social Regenerative design! 27. It will only be used if it is not overrun with home- less people 28. I’ve always thought of it as “the bridge to no- where” 29. As with all parks, the orientation of play equip- ment for children must make sure that slides will not overheat so that they can be used from 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. 30. This area and across Clear Creek are popular spots for homeless. The amount of trash they leave makes it unpleasant to walk/ride through. 31. Please address the litter and trash in our parks! 32. See for playground ideas: Heart of the City Play- ground (931) 526-2211 33. This area is central to so many elements of the community but also in the midst of an industri- al area that sees alot of trucks - I would love to see a space that is more inviting to community members and not just a pass-through for runners and bikers. I think because it feels so transient it doesn’t exactly feel like an inviting place currently, so whatever design elements you choose I hope it will feel more welcoming. 34. Not many places over 3 miles to walk my dog in Arvada. I have to drive far and a lot of play grounds added. 35. Park is currently not utilized. With limited residen- tial property around it, I’m not sure how much it be used not matter what improvements are done. A survey or poll of nearby Arvada residents would be a good idea before spending a lot of TAXPAY- ERS money. 36. interactive would be fun and exciting given its history 37. Please see above about tying in the G Line riders as patrons of the site. (The G Line stands for Gold Line, after all, and the nearby station “Arvada Gold Strike” is meant to commemorate the 1850 find.) Q11 I Are there any other comments or suggestions for Gold Strike Park that you’d like to share with the design team? (General public comments & suggestions, continued.) 38. Thank you for involving us and for the thoughtful options, I’m so excited. I love the idea of it being a very natural space tucked in this area of Arvada. 39. This park will get more use from locals if there are less homeless camps. 40. I would love to have better bike access to this park system from the columbine neighborhood at 55th and Marshall. The only two options are to take Marshall under the i70 underpass and enter near creekside park, which is a rough two lane road with a lousy shoulder, or to take 56th street, another rough road with a lousy shoulder and lots of heavy trucks nearby. 41. I support improvements at Gold Strike. Improved river access, steam enhancements, and vegeta- tion thinning (a security enhancement), would enhance the area. It would also be great to work with the landowner(s) adjacent to the park, along Clear Creek and really leverage the confluence area. With support from MHFD, WDTU, Jefferson County, or other partners, this area has a lot of potential for a variety of uses. The current use of the adjacent property is not the most beneficial, and it’s a deterrent to using the park. I realize the complexity here. 42. Make it a destination rather than a pass through park,. I’m a biker that uses it for trailhead parking to access Clear Creek Trail and trails beyond so regional trail connections and wayfinding are big for me. A safer , more inviting parking area with a restroom and nearby shaded picnic tables. Right now the parking lot and environs are a little creepy to be honest. Emphasize the park as a foundational spot to Arvada’s founding and very being. 43. Really, really love the idea of natural playgrounds that are beautiful and engaging for people of all ages! So, so good! 44. The importance of the above comment. 45. Provide good options for trash removal and recy- cling. Area should not become a homeless camp 46. A pump track would reflect family values and create a place for gathering families. ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 28 Q11 I Are there any other comments or suggestions for Gold Strike Park that you’d like to share with the design team? (General public comments & suggestions, continued.) 47. In its current form, Gold Strike Park is NOT a hos- pitable, comfortable, community-oriented place. It’s a bare, mostly treeless, overly sunny place that Ralston Creek Trail cust through with ugly, mean- ingless “sculptures”. I would love to see this histor- ic place turned from an armpit into a true commu- nity gathering spot with creek access, GREEN not dead grass, shade trees, and a welcoming picnic spot. As it is, it is a disgrace to our lovely city. Please make it better! 48. Police presence to assure safe environment 49. create natural play spaces for all ages 50. Give credit to Lois for her role in dis- covering the history of this park. 51. Love the natural play elements!! This seems so great!! 52. Make the park feel like a park - somewhere you’d want to linger. Now it is just a place to pass through with strange workout equipment, minimal signs, and unattractive/lacking landscaping. 53. There are lots of parks for children and families all along this corridor, this does not need to be one. 54. Must add off leash dog pakr 55. Provide a safe area for everyone to enjoy. Just to the west is usually an area where the homeless have their camps from Gold Strike Park to the bridge of I-76. 56. Improve creek to allow for heavier runoffs to re- duce flooding 57. Pickleball courts 58. I bike through regularly and love that the park will be improved! I think one challenging aspect is that there is not really a neighborhood so having some special attraction (like creek access) would proba- bly encourage use more than just a playground. 59. Would love to see a community gathering space for community events and some public art to interact with! Community gathering space by the creek that could also be used for small local concerts/events would be so incredible. Or finding a way to make tubing down ralston creek similar to what they have in golden would drive a lot of economic development and community activation. 60. Your goals talk about “sharing the rich history of Arvada” but none of these questions even come close to including that. Therefore, you will not get appropriate responses to that aspect of the park. It seems purposely excluded. How do you intend to “share the rich history of Arvada” with no inclu- sion of it in your Public survey? 61. Hill for sledding in the winter would be amazing 62. It’s time to recognize what this site represents to Arvada and to the state particularly as the state will celebrate it’s 50th anniversary soon. Let’s show and tell what this site represents as it con- nects physically to the region and historically to the state’s history 63. You must keep it as Gold Strike and teach others about it first came to be 64. Think about safety with homeless along this area where many can’t see what is happening. All ages play including 0-5 years of age. 65. Would love an off leash area that included creek or water access. 66. The artwork at the site--I think it’s by Charles Parson--is an important part of the park. 67. I think the park will be used primarily by the homeless that have grown in the area 68. WOmen need bathrooms with trash cans 69. “The more bike friendly it is, the more our family will use it. Please make sure that there is adequate bike parking available when new parking lot is de- signed.” 70. It would be nice to have a police presence if pos- sible as some of the homeless population along the creek are very aggressive. 71. This isn’t a park with a lot of houses next by with families that walk here. I think improvements could be made but I don’t see this is a park that would host large group events, but maybe that could change with the new vision. 72. Houseless neighbors is a BIG issues in this area. It needs to be addressed 73. Safety and no homeless ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 29 74. With current climate conditions, I am not in favor of planting any trees or creating traditional grassy spaces at this park. Also if trail/park lights are added for safety, please make sure they turn off during migration season after 10pm and/or the lights at least have shields/sodium lighting (to preserve dark skies and keep birds safe during migration). 75. Have more connecting bike trails to Gold Strike Park - can you connect Dry Creek trail from the North at Lake Arbor to Gold Strike? Right now I have to take city streets - be nice - just a thought 76. All the bike trails, murals and improvements made to the parks around are so great! 77. Add more security to stop littering, drug use, and vagrancy.. 78. Enough already of slides and swings which are ubiquitous. Enough of workout stations. This is a special park with history and should reflect that We should accommodate teens and adults. Small children can do gold panning or other things.. 79. Make sure there is handicap access! 80. No matter what improvements are done the homeless and vandalism will be a constant prob- lem until the homeless are held accountable for their actions 81. Homeless Homeless. Homeless Homeless Home- less Homeless 82. The parks unique location without a nearby residential area, but mostly light/heavy industrial. These days it is becoming quite common for folks to bring their dogs to work with them, and a place for a romp for the dog seems to be the one that would draw the most daytime users. Leaving the gather and learn areas for residential users. 83. “The Historical importance of the site needs to be emphasized along with parking and trees and pathways.“ 84. None 85. Above all is the fact that if you improve the park by adding restrooms and making it comfortable for tax paying citizens, the homeless will take it over. They have already ruined the aesthetics Q11 I Are there any other comments or suggestions for Gold Strike Park that you’d like to share with the design team? (General public comments & suggestions, continued.) along the trail and creeks with encampments, trash and overall disregard for anyone but them- selves. 86. As I remember someone painted some text on the path concrete to indicate the way to Golden 😄 so maybe a directional sign at the park and another over the bridge where Ralston meets Clear Creek would be good. Other than that, just something to make it more welcoming and interactive. Not sure if kids/families will show up, but if they do, that always makes a park seem happier, for lack of a better phrase. 87. “Security is my main concern. The trails have homeless all along them or nearby. It should not be easy for the homeless to access trails and gathering areas. They will trash anything nice that is in place. That is a fact. not just a comment.” 88. who are the stakeholders that were included in this project 89. I used to ride my bike through here all the time. I dont use the trail now because of the homeless situation and encampments. I am afraid. 90. Being semi-secluded from main roads, and lying right along the Ralston Creek trail, I can see cer- tain elements being a magnet for the homeless people that are in the area. 91. The Jeffco School Curriculum , in 8th grade social studies, addresses the west and gold mining. En- couraging field trips (or family visits) as part of the curriculum. The information could be sent to area middle schools as part of a lesson (one or two days). Even though it might not be a part of ele- mentary, what a cool day to have area schools go to the site for a field trip or gold panning. Arvada could buy and then loan gold panning equipment to the schools. 92. The playground would provide for parent/child to stay, play & gather; , trails provide access for passing through. Pickleball courts would give adults a place to stay, play, & gather 93. The location of this park, being situated amongst industrial buildings, would not make it a frequently visited area for Arvada citizens. For this reason, I think the park should be focused on reestablish- ment/conservation of native Colorado habitat. ---PAGE BREAK--- S U R V E Y R E S U LT S 30 94. There is always a need in the metro area for more pickleball courts. That said, this area could also become a destination for another activity like bouldering, bmx biking, etc. Just hoping that the “play” features are not only created for children, but that there are also ways for young adults/ac- tive older adults to use the park as well. 95. HISTORY SHOULD BE FIRST AN FOREMOST. Learning the history behind what the park is com- memorating! 96. Just that it be a safe and inviting place to be outside. It would be a shame if it became another place to attract vagrants. I have stopped going to Prospect Park for that reason. I don’t feel safe there anymore whereas I used to walk there all the time. 97. Be sure to include gold discovery and give Lois and Arvada Historical Society the credit they deserve. 98. Keep history in Arvada - make it safe. 99. Congratulations and thank you for planning to im- prove urban interface with river and nature. These plantings/wild life refuges are more valuable than playgrounds and infrastructure etc found in other park areas 100. The first gold strike in Colorado on June 22, 1850 was here. There needs to be something com- memorating that event. The tireless efforts of the founder of the Arvada Historical Society, Lois to get the city and state to accept her research supporting that fact, to get the city to purchase the land, and to encourage putting up the historical signage. 101. Please please don’t forget the history and the huge part Lois played in bringing it to light. Thank you. 102. please don’t make it too nice for the homeless, or have it patrolled regularly. I hate to be that way but there is so much trash left in the area it is disgust- ing and unsafe for families 103. more informarion about discovery of gold made available 104. Please honor Mrs Q11 I Are there any other comments or suggestions for Gold Strike Park that you’d like to share with the design team? (General public comments & suggestions, continued.) 105. I understand the park exists to commemorate the first gold strike in Colorado on June 22, 1850. I’d like to see signage & other elements to com- memorate the park’s history. 106. I envision a park that welcomes all. Children, Se- nior Citizens, those with disabilities, nature lovers, and the birds and animals that the park is home to.