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- " ,~~~, Over the past ISO years of evolution, both have become the focus of and surrounded by the community, even though the original intent was to create them in areas far away from the city center, Grand parks typically have several features in common: natural settings, cultural facilities such as museums, community centers, lakes and ponds, play fields, and circulation systems that separate vehicles and pedestrians. These parks serve a wide variety of demographics and have become central in 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 grand parks. Grand Park Design Concept As discussed in the Land Use Element, the overall vision for the Phase II Specific Plan 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: l) 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 evolve with the views of tall tree canopies, dominating forested edges, and meadows. Layers of vegetation types will eventually be introduced, forming complex patterns perceived as wilderness. Ultimately, the Grand Park will consist predominantly of natural woodlands and meadows, conducive to spontaneous activities and not overly programmed or developed. PLANT COMMUNITIES The Bernal Property is situated within the Northern California inland foothills and inland valleys plant environments. Within these regional environmental zones, specific native 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, 134 Grand Park Design Element