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i i i n fragility of the park's habitats are less likely t to sustain long-term use by mountain biking ; than other areas in the park system, such i ~ - f. ~ , as the Ridgeline Trail. Because of this, and ~ a~~ ' ~ in recognition of the potential for high pedestrian use from downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods, mountain biking may be an inappropriate use for the park. Streets and bike paths provide adequate bike access to the park, and the short lengths of trails within the park are not likely to create a significant draw for legitimate mountain biking interest. Organized Sports: The citywide survey indicates organized Mountain bikers, hikers and dog-walkers use the existing, , sports astheleastpopularuseforthepark, Changing cultural values, including unimproved river banktoor ~ as well as the lowest priority for additions productivity, demands of education, gender path _ to park facilities(2%to7%support). Other roles, work schedules and modes of public input also clearly indicates that popular entertainment all probably organized sports are a low priority. The contribute to this trend in one way or most frequent explanation for this opinion another. The reactivation of the park is that organized sports facilities such as through programming that is responsive to , ~ soccer fields and softball fields are seen these contemporary trends is seen as key as a use suitable to any relatively level, to shifting back towards more positive use open site, and do not reflect or support the patterns. In addition, offering opportunities, unique qualities of Skinner Butte Park. facilities and management in city parks that Opinions suggest, however,. that the respond to contemporary leisure existing ball field (see Chapter 3), as a preferences such as nature, education, historic, sub-standard facility, provides an personal sporting activities and events may opportunity for informal play associated help attract more park users back from with social events taking place near the other forms of local entertainment and more main picnic area. The ball field is currently distant outdoor recreation destinations. not programmed or reserved (due to its Skinner Butte Park ~ ~ small size), and should remain open for Focusing on enhancing features attractive has the potential to informal play only. Support exists for to the public, while restoring and protecting ~ offer many features smaller court-type sports facilities under the natural resources may be the key to long- that are attractive to condition that they are strictly ancillary to term transformation towards positive use today's park users ~ ~ social event functions, and do not conflict patterns. With its large size and geographic with unique park values. diversity, Skinner Butte Park offers tremendous potential in this area i Changing Society, Changing Use Patterns y__, Often despite the condition ofthefacilities, Management ' the park is popular and enjoys a great deal of use on summer evenings and weekends. In the morning and in the evening, bicycle Staffing and Funding commuters and runners usethe bike path. Skinner Butte Park is maintained on a At lunchtime, more noon-hour users are regular schedule, and on an as-needed attracted to the park for exercise, or to enjoy basis by general parks maintenance staff. ~ - lunch or take a nap in their car. As in many There are no staff currently dedicated city parks, however, there appears to be specifically to the maintenance of the park. relatively little activity during other daytime Mowing, weeding, pruning, trash removal hours. and facilities repair occur regularly, while 50 Chapter 4: Current Use, Policy and Management