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PLANNING PRINCIPLES <br />In addition to specific improvement projects, a set of planning principles were <br />developed to further explain the overall goals and objectives of the concept design. <br />These principles will guide decision-making and management practices within Amazon <br />Park to ensure that the beauty and unique aspects of the park are honored into the <br />future. <br />^ A balance of uses. One of the joys of a trip to Amazon Park is seeing many people <br />participating in numerous types of activities. This vibrancy within the park reflects <br />the diversity of our population and landscape. Developed portions of the park such <br />as athletic fields, the pool, playground, and dog park are vital components. to a <br />healthy and active community. Likewise, the undeveloped and. natural portions of <br />.:the park such as the ash woodlands, Amazon-Creek, and wetland prairies offer <br />habitat for wildlife and inspiration from their beauty. There is an approximate ratio . <br />of 50% developed areas and 50% natural areas in Amazon Park, see land use diagram <br />in appendix. Based on public comments received, and the expertise of Recreation, <br />Natural Resources, and Park Planning staff, this balance is deemed appropriate. <br />^ Unprogrammed spaces. With so much demand on our parks and open spaces to meet <br />recreational or environmental needs, there is a risk of over-programming the park. <br />One of the most valuable portions of the park is the open expanses of lawn. It is iri <br />these areas where some of our favorite activities occur; picnics, kite flying, sun- <br />bathing, and Frisbee. These open lawn areas must be protected from encroaching <br />development; <br />• south of the Amazon Community Center and north of the skatepark, <br />• north of the Amazon Community Center and south of the picnic area, and <br />• north of the play area and south of Amazon Pool. <br />^ Safety and access. To ensure Amazon Park is enjoyed by the entire community, <br />continued attention must be focused on creating safe places which are easily <br />accessible by all. Tree lined connections with safe street crossings into adjacent <br />neighborhoods is a goal for all sides of the park. Access for persons with disabilities <br />is a priority and will be addressed with all new construction projects. By creating a <br />park which is continually utilized and enjoyed by friends and neighbors, safety and <br />:.security within the park is elevated. <br />^ `Lighting. Amazon Park is an oasis of darkness in a growing and increasingly <br />.illuminated urban environment. Lighting levels within the park should be kept at a <br />minimum level, while ensuring public safety. Additional lighting is proposed in two <br />locations; along the central bike path for nighttime travel safety, and in the tennis <br />court expansion. All new fixtures must conform to new shielded lighting standards. <br />Additionally, as resources allow, existing park lighting which does not meet today's <br />standards should be replaced with shielded fixtures to reduce glare and unwanted <br />light spill over. <br />Amazon Park Concept Design Page 13 February 15, 2005 <br />