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• Increased injuries from participation on an artificial surface: Staff agreed to conduct additional research; however, numerous municipalities have gone to all- weather fields. Neighborhood concerns: The field could potentially be fenced, limiting access to the park; not having the ability to walk dogs; increased use and traffic; lights on for a greater period of time; parking; environmental concerns; lack of restrooms. • Cost: Though no proposals have been solicited nor the cost of additional amenities considered, preliminary estimates for the field conversion alone would be approximately $1.5 million. • Sports Use: Some expressed concern that if the field were converted, it would become an exclusive soccer facility. Staff assured those in attendance that any field improvements are expected to accommodate current uses. The benefit to all groups would be a reduction in games and practices cancelled due to poor field conditions. Staff indicated that no funds are currently allocated for the Bernal Upper Field project, and that the purpose of the meeting was to gather neighborhood/community input regarding any potential modifications to the site. It was suggested by numerous attendees that focusing on Phase 2 improvements at Bernal Community Park would actually produce a greater benefit than a single field at Bernal Upper Field Park. The results of the Bernal Upper Field meeting were presented to the Parks and Recreation Commission at its regular meeting on July 10, 2008. The Commission indicated its interest in preserving the existing character of Bernal Upper Fields, and encouraged staff and the City Council to move forward with preparation of plans for the development of Phase 2 at Bernal Community Park in lieu of modifications to the Bernal Upper Fields. In addition, since other possible improvements to Bernal Upper Field were suggested at the community meeting, the Commission recommended that the Council consider a renovation of the Bernal Upper Field site as a future Capital Improvement Project (CIP) when the plan is updated in spring 2009. Submitted by: ~~~~~~~~ ~.~~ James W. Wolfe Director of Parks and Community Services Fiscal Review: Approve by: ~~~~~ David P. Culver Nelson Fialho Director of Finance City Manager Attachments: 1. Recommended Professional Services Agreement with Harris Design, Landscape Architects. 2. Parks and Recreation Commission Minutes, July 10, 2008 Page 3 of 3