CCMIN071613 - Laserfiche WebLink

Street to the park and can really be anything of sensory interest. He described :he bandstand, which would serve to replace the Chan Henderson Bandstand, in greater detail, noting an expanded lawn area extending to the east towards First Street. Vice-Mayor Cook-Kallio asked him to estimate the bandstand capacity, as proposed. Mr. Larson could not say specifically but said it is a rough double of size .and therefore should accommodate approximately twice as many people, and likely more comfortably. He outlined the northern end of the site, noting prominent elements such as the existing large eucalyptus tree, Firehouse Arts Center, plazas and regional trail connections. He introduced the proposed water/adventure play area, which is an element designed specifically for youth activity. Mr. Larson reviewed the schematic for Option B, again noting significant similarities to Option A with exception of the open swale. He explained that because of the extent of development at the Firehouse Arts Center as well as other natural site features, it is likely that the swale would require very steep sides and perhaps retaining walls in several locations. He called the Council's attention to a pedestrian bridge crossing the swale for regional trail access as well as a bridge intended to connect the bandstand and audience area with the larger great lawn. Mayor Thorne noted the schematic indicates a stretch of trees that almost cut the great lawn in half and asked if that would interfere with views of the bandstand from the far side of the lawn. Mr. Larson said it would be highly dependent on how the site is graded and where trees are placed. He agreed that views might be somewhat affected but said this could also be manacled to some extent by how the tree canopies are pruned. Mayor Thorne said there are competing interests at play in that there is a desire to have as large an expanse as possible for the bandstand area but that shade is also a necessity at times. He thought the greater interest was in ensuring that they do not interfere with the ability to se e the grandstand and suggested that canopies could always be used for shade if needed. Councilmember Brown noted that the schematics demonstrate retention of the large eucalyptus trees, but not the larger redwood or the numerous trees lining the swale, Neal Street or First Street. Mr. Larson assured her the intent is not to level the site of trees. He explained that the purpose of the schematics is simply to indicate the element of greenery; whether that is provided by existing or new trees is not a part of this preliminary design. Councilmember Brown referred to the restroom area at West Angela and First Street and noted the schematics indicate paving. She said the area currently makes a wonderful play ;pace because it is so open and asked what the goal is with installing paved concrete strips. Mr. Larson explained that the idea is to provide versatility. The paved areas provide a walkway to accommodate canopies or tents for occasional use while also leaving the area open for more informal play and park use during other times, creating a lawn area that can take on intensive use. Councilmember Brown thought the combination of concrete and grass could present a trip hazard during active use. Mr. Larson disagreed, provided it were well designed, and suggested the grea: lawn might be more suitable for more intensive activities. City Council Minutes Page 9 of 13 July 16,2013