SR 05:301 (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

the lives of the citizens. Most park acreage is dedicated to naturalized open space conducive to spontaneous activities and not overly programmed and developed. Over the past years, the meaning of grand parks has changed as knowledge of the natural environment, personal health and social needs has evolved. Open space systems now have greater significance in the manner in which designers think about parks and public space. Emphasis is now being placed on connecting residual landscapes into a single system designed for leisure, social engagement and recreation. Aesthetic appeal is also reappearing as a high priority. Symbolism, as represented by public art or interpretive design elements, further add to the richness and entertainment value of the grand parks. GRAND PARK DESIGN CONCEPT As discussed in the Land Use Element, the overall vision for the Phase II Area is one of an open space/park-like setting within which a variety of public and quasi-public uses and facilities are to be integrated. The Grand Park concept will be the basis for organizing and creating the Phase II Plan Area natural setting in which this vision is to be developed. This is to be created primarily through: I) the planned organization of natural plant communities, and 2) sustainability practices intended to ensure the permanent viability of the open space-park setting. Both components are further discussed below. The characteristic most common to grand parks is the total mass of tree canopies and organisms living within a clearly delineated natural environment. Initial images of the Bernal Property open space will consist of expansive views of undeveloped farm land. Over time, the essence of the Grand Park will be tall tree canopies, dominating forested edges, and park boundaries. Layers of vegetation types will eventually be introduced naturally, forming complex patterns perceived as wilderness. Ultimately, the Grand Park will consist predominantly of natural woodlands and meadows, accessible, conducive to spontaneous activities and not overly programmed or developed. Plant Communities The Bernal Property is situated within the Northern Califomia inland foothills and inland valleys plant environments. Within these regional environmental zones, specific natural plant communities or habitats have been identified (Figure 4-1) for inclusion within the Phase II Plan Area, including Valley Grassland, Valley Woodland, Valley Forest, Valley Foothill Riparian and Oak Savanna. Valley Grassland (Figure 4-2) typical of the contemporary California landscape is generally not a native mix of grasses, but a blend of European exotics resulting from grazing and settlement activities over the last 200 years. However, representative populations and diverse communities of more than 300 grass species native to California are still found statewide. Growth forms range from tufted bunchgrasses to spreading sod-forming grasses, growing in height from just a few Administrative Draft, Bernal Property Phase II Specific Plan, October 25, 2005 Page 24