2023 Parks and Recreation Aquatics Master Plan

Aquatic Facilities Master Plan FACILITY AUDIT

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Quality and Physical Condition The age of renovations at the park and the variety of amenities and uses lends itself to the condition and upkeep of Barber Park. Generally, the landscaping is well-maintained as are the structures and furnishings. On the splash pad, peeling paint and loose fixtures were observed at the time of the visit. Other Considerations The southern portion of the site where the indoor sports courts are located is in the flood plain and flood way of South Buffalo Creek, however the playground and splash pad are built at a higher elevation out of the flood plain. Immediately surrounding Barber Park are several neighborhoods, the Hayes-Taylor Memorial YMCA, and the Gateway Gardens, all accessible via a 5-10 minute walk on pedestrian dedicated trails and paths.

Sense of Arrival to Facility from Main Entrance – Vehicular Barber Park underwent extensive renovations in 2009, adding a splashpad, playground, shelters, and concessions/restrooms building adjacent to the splashpad as part of a master plan. Therefore, the update made visual and signed access to the splash pad easy from a vehicle. The splash pad is accessible from the nearby parking via a central entry plaza. Sense of Arrival to Facility from Main Entrance – Pedestrian The entire park property is easily accessible via pedestrian connections to the surrounding neighborhoods. The placement of exterior and wayfinding signs direct visitors to the parks generous offerings of facilities, including the splash pad. Most of the park has relatively even walking surfaces, and the amenities appear accessible. Accessibility and Well-Being The Barber Park splash pad is comparatively flat, eliminating the need for ramps or stairs to access the splash pad. There are ramps and steps needed to transverse the site from the playground to the splash pad, with these features appearing to be ADA compliant with adequate slope and handrails. A variety of seating opportunities are present at different locations within the immediate area of the splash pad as well as throughout the park. The site is characterized by limbed up trees and shrubs that are maintained at a low height providing clear sightlines within the park. In addition to the landscape, site structures and paths are located properly to invoke a sense of safety and security by minimizing low-visibility areas. Sustainability Although lacking innovative sustainable practices, Barber Park has maintained most of the natural habitats through its various expansion and renovations projects. The inclusion of stormwater elements or using native plantings would provide sustainable and educational site components.

Entry plaza at Barber Park. Sprayground is beyond the restroom and concession structure in the foreground.

Playground adjacent entry plaza and sprayground.

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