Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 02/19/2004

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Other Continued With the recognition that staff'output and other resources are being maximized, gaining additional .capacity by increased efficiencies requires contemporary tracking and analytical tools. These will enable the department to work harder and smarter. In addition, systems need to be put in place to lessen the risk of losing the "braintrust" of the organization through retirement, since this is a contributing factor in orgardza'rional inefficiency. Critical 'knowledge could be lost because if no system is in place to capture it. T-he management system needs to remain in place as the xvorkforce changes. · Trail Signage Program .... ':~ One of the more important communication tools is a comprehensive signage program that is carried uniformly throughout the trail system. The signage should provide a consistent message to trail visitors, and provide information on trail names, directions to features, general information, rules, ecological stewardship programs, and interpretive information. Section 6 features various types of signage that could be considered for a signage pro,am. Concepts range from less expensive xvirh low durabilit}, to more expensive with high durability. · Americans xvith DisabLLities Act (ADA) Guidelines Various trail cross sections and'routes have been illustrated in this document. Trails are designed for the people, but what types of peo~ole? It is important to consider all user t3-pes when planning new trails and upgrading existing trails. Municipalities have a responsibility (morally as well as legally) to provide a reasonable level of accessibility (to parks and programs) for individuals xvith varying levels of ability. To help this happen, the federal government has established laws that mandate designs that promote equal access to all users of public (and private) facilities and programs. Although not completely tested in park settings, the basic intent of the act is dear: reasonable, equal access opportunities must be provided to those with disabilities. There are no requirements within the ADA that mandate any spatial requirements relative to the size of any particular type of park and recreation facility. The act does, however, mandate that park areas and facilities be reasonably accessible and usable to al/populations. The extent to which compliance with the act will impact the size or configuration of a particular facility is unlikely. Specific design guidelines may have to be incorporated into the design in response to the act. 48