Sheldon Community Center, Pool, Ball Field 1993 - 1994

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SHELDON CENTER/POOL PARKING EXPANSION LRCS - PERSPECTIVE Staff records at the Sheldon Center/Pool facilities indicate a pattern of participant complaints and dissatisfaction regarding inadequate parking space. The rapid population growth in the Willakenzie area, and the resulting increase in demand for services at these facilities has created an even greater demand for the limited parking spaces available. This project is endorsed by School District 4-J officials and by the Sheldon High School Administration. The restructured parking lot will serve to eliminate the safety and overcrowding concerns of having high school students driving through the lot when our preschool and children's programs are in session. In February of 1993 the Recreation Division undertook a sample survey of opinions regarding this proposed project. The completed results were later displayed, and are available for viewing. Out of 275 responses to the survey, nearly 78% of the respondents indicated they had noticed a shortage of parking. In response to one statement, 80% of all participants indicated that they believed additional parking would encourage greater use of these facili - ties. Over half of all the respondents indicated that they had sometimes failed to find a parking space at this lot. Being charged with the task of increasing revenues, this division needs to be keenly aware of any conditions that could have a negative effect on our ability to attract and keep new customers. Registration records show that some long-term participants are no longer using these facilities. The assessment of staff at both facilities indicates that the level of frustration regarding the lack of adequate parking is high enough that there will be a negative impact on participant attendance and revenues in the near future. The addition of parking at these facilities will benefit all the participants who enter into and support these services. Many senior adults who come to the facilities for fitness or water therapy classes will be greatly encouraged by the consistent availability of close-in parking. Pedestrians, folks in • wheelchairs and cyclists will find that the restructured entranceway, sidewalk and lighting makes the trip to these facilities much safer and more user friendly. LRCS RECOMMENDATION LRCS staff recommend that the council proceed with the disbursement of CIP funds for the parking lot expansion project at the Sheldon Center/Pool facilities. The expanded parking will greatly support the efforts at these facilities to increase attendance, enhance revenue potential , and address a long standing issue with our customers.