Comprehensive Plan

2011
HUNTLEY PARK DISTRICT COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN
2011 COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN
prepared for
Huntley Park District 12015 Mill Street Huntley, Illinois 60142 847.669.3180
prepared by
Bonestroo 1860 West Winchester Road Suite 106 Libertyville, Illinois 60048 847.816.1631
BONESTROO 2011
June 2011
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Dr. William Awe . President Jerry Nepermann . Vice President Susan Dunlap . Commissioner Jim Blasky . Commissioner Paul LaFleur . Commissioner
EXECUTIVE STAFF
Thom Palmer . Executive Director Christine Howatt . Finance Director Paul Ostrander . Parks Director Debbie Kraus . Recreation Director Gary Zierer . Facilities Director Mike Yackle . Director of Golf
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION EXECUTIVE SUMMARY PARKS & RECREATION COMMUNITY PROFILE COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS DISTRICT PROFILE & OPERATIONS CLASSIFICATION OF PARKS COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT PARK & FACILITY EVALUATION PARK ASSESSMENT
CHAPTER 8 CHAPTER 9 CHAPTER 7 CHAPTER 6 CHAPTER 5 CHAPTER 4 CHAPTER 3 CHAPTER 2 CHAPTER 1
1 3 9 17 21 53 67 87 105 117 147 159 169 179 189 201
FACILITY ASSESSMENT RECREATION PROGRAMS MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS LAND ACQUISITION CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PRIORITIZATION APPENDICES SOURCES 2010 COMMUNITY SURVEY SURVEY COMMENTS
CHAPTER 13 CHAPTER 12 CHAPTER 11 CHAPTER 10
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Introduction

After ten years of growth that saw the development of ten new parks, the construction of a new aquatics facility, acquisition and enhancement of a golf course, opening of a recreation center and significant expansion of programs and staff, the Huntley Park Districts 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan comes at exactly the right time to provide a review of what has taken place and provide direction on whats next. With growth slowed during the current economic decline, HPD is poised to face the future utilizing this document as a guide. Initiated in the summer of 2010, the comprehensive planning process included a diverse strategic visioning phase with the administration of a community survey and meetings with user groups, residents, stakeholders, HPD staff and the Board of Commissioners. As one of most important aspects in the development of a Comprehensive Master Plan, an inclusive visioning process promotes a sense of pride and responsibility in the HPD community. The quality of parks, facilities and programs offered by the HPD is very good, as quality development and diversification of programs defined the District during its period of growth. Park design direction included landscape and design standards that created additional maintenance needs. Maintaining quality parks and facilities requires a proactive approach that HPD does well. HPD programs offerings continue to expand, and new opportunities for collaborative programming are available. As a region that is still likely to see more future growth, developing a good land acquisition strategy is very important to the District. HPDs acquisition and park development strategy will need to include neighborhood parks as new housing subdivisions are planned along with larger tracts of land in those growth areas where community parks and new facilities can be developed to meet the needs of new residents. The Huntley Park Districts 2011Comprehensive Master Plan has been written to provide innovative ideas and recommendations that provide both a global perspective and a local focus.
ES
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Executive Summary
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Huntley Park Districts 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan is presented utilizing a series of chapters that provide a detailed look at the District and the community that it serves. This provides an overview of what the master planning document contains. The Comprehensive Master Plan is designed to be a guide for the District in making operational, capital improvement and philosophical decisions over the next five years and beyond.
MASTER PLANNING
It is well known that parks and recreation facilities offer many benefits to a community. The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), and various other professional associations representing the construction, planning, real estate, and health care industries have published papers that espouse these benefits. Improved health, environmental protection, open space preservation and increased property values are just some of the benefits identified. As in many aspects of life in the United States, there are trends that shape park and recreation planning. Many of these trends are due to demographic shifts and lifestyle changes, but others play on such things as increased environmental awareness and on economics that affect the funding of leisure time activities. This chapter describes the benefits of parks and recreation, and presents some of the nationwide trends that may be applicable to the Huntley Park District.
CHAPTER 1 PARKS AND RECREATION
Understanding the history, culture and traditions of a community plays a key role in planning for the future, as these are underlying principles that help shape a community as do its people. This chapter presents a brief overview of the community based on its geography, demographics and history. Because the Huntley Park District includes areas within multiple municipal jurisdictions, the chapter focuses on the people living in the area rather than on the municipalities. This information provides an understanding of the community that allows the formulation of viable recommendations for park and recreation programs, amenities and services.
CHAPTER 2 COMMUNITY PROFILE
Encouraging user groups, residents, stakeholders and staff in planning for parks and recreation promotes a sense of community pride and responsibility. The Huntley Park District shares in a philosophy of including various points of view to develop a vision for future planning efforts that represent a variety of interests. This chapter describes the various methods used to garner the recommendations and opinions of the public, user groups, organizations and stakeholders with whom HPD partners in providing services and facilities. The chapter presents the findings that came from these efforts, including the public workshop, the 2010 Community Survey and stakeholder/ focus group meetings. The findings of visioning meetings with HPD staff and the Board of Commissioners provide an inside view of the District.
CHAPTER 3 COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
CHAPTER 4 HPD PROFILE & OPERATIONS
Each park and recreation agency has a unique style and character that come from its geography, history, governance, operations and the cultural diversity of its population. This chapter provides an overview of the Huntley Park District that looks at the organizational structure of the agency, its history and the partnerships that HPD has developed with other agencies, organizations and businesses that work with HPD toward the common good of the community. This overview also looks at a variety of topics regarding the day to day functioning of the District; focusing on a few specific areas where opportunities exist for improved services. Volunteerism, maintenance, training, collaboration, and administrative topics are discussed, with a series of recommendations presented for modifying, tracking, upgrading, or collaborating in ways to simplify operations and allow staff efforts to focus appropriately. These recommendations are considered suggested guidelines that can assist the District in providing great services to the community.
CHAPTER 5 CLASSIFICATION OF PARKS
There are a variety of different types of parks within any park system that serve various functions within a community. Each of these types of park serves a distinct geographical base that ranges from a few blocks surrounding a mini-park or playground to several miles for parks that offer amenities that are unique to a region. The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) has developed a classification system that can be used as a base to describe most types of parks. These standards can be modified to address a specific agency and the unique types of parks that an agency offers. This chapter describes the various classifications of parks and facilities in the Huntley Park District along with a listing of parks falling within each classification. Included are overviews of recreation facilities and amenities offered by the Village of Lake in the Hills, Village of Algonquin, Consolidated School District #158 and Del Webbs Sun City development. Maps are provided that illustrate the services area of the parks and the overall service coverage provided to the community.
Comparing park and recreation agencies provides an understanding of how well an agency provides amenities and facilities for its residents compared with other agencies. The rationale behind this comparison is that a localized comparison offers a more accurate analysis of the needs and deficiencies of an agency. This chapter provides a comparison of the Huntley Park District to seventeen other park and recreation agencies in the region, providing quantitative comparison of many of the more common elements found within parks in this region. Because the Villages of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin have built parks within HPD boundaries, a comparison that combines the three agencys amenity offerings is also presented. Conclusions are offered that look at this comparison with respect to public needs.
CHAPTER 6 COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
CHAPTER 7 PARK & FACILITY EVALUATION
One of the most important steps in the comprehensive planning process is the inventory and assessment of the existing land, building and site improvements owned and operated by the park and recreation agency. An on-site evaluation of existing parks and facilities provides the basis for formulating recommendations for improvements to each park and facility. This chapter describes the process used for site and facility evaluations. The chapter also presents a series of recommendations for park and facility improvements that are common throughout the Huntley Park District, as well as new facilities that should be considered. These recommendations include consideration for future design and capital improvements to the parks and facilities, including ways to create a branding of the agency as well as quality and safety improvements that should be implemented District-wide.
CHAPTER 8 PARK ASSESSMENT
The chapter includes the assessments of each individual park as developed during the onsite evaluation of each property. Each park assessment includes an aerial photo image of the park, a brief overall description of the site, discussions regarding the individual amenities and features of each park, photographs of the parks and recommendations for improvements that are specific to each park site. Survey results, community visioning and discussions with HPD Staff and Commissioners also factor into the recommendations for park improvements. These recommendations are prioritized in a manner that will allow HPD to implement them over a multi-year process. Flexibility is built into the recommendations to provide for unforeseen circumstances and for opportunities that present themselves during the course of implementation.
CHAPTER 9 FACILITY ASSESSMENT
The chapter includes the assessments of key HPD facilities as developed during the on-site evaluation of the facility properties. Each facility assessment includes a brief overall description of the facility, discussions regarding the individual amenities and features of each facility, a series of photographs documenting existing conditions, and recommendations for improvements that are specific to each facility. Survey results, community visioning and discussions with HPD Staff and Commissioners also factor into the recommendations for facility improvements. These recommendations are presented to allow implementation to be flexible to provide for unforeseen circumstances and for opportunities that present themselves during the course of implementation.
CHAPTER 10 RECREATION PROGRAMS
Providing an overview of recreation program offerings is another important step in the master planning process. This chapter includes a description of the types of programs provided by HPD, as well as a series of recommendations for program assessment, collaboration and expansion. These recommendations are strategically based on the community survey results, community visioning, and discussions with HPD Staff and Commissioners. 5
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
CHAPTER 11 MARKETING
In order to maintain resident interest in HPD, a general evaluation of current marketing efforts and recommendations for new marketing initiatives are presented in this chapter. Community outreach, print and broadcast media, HPD publications and other communitywide opportunities are identified and discussed for implementing a comprehensive program to attract residents and visitors to HPD. Opportunities for marketing the District outside the boundaries of the District are also considered.
CHAPTER 12 LAND ACQUISITION
The McHenry County/Kane County area presents future opportunities for growth once the economic turnaround is complete and new land development projects are initiated. The Huntley Park District understands that the current economy also presents an opportunity to acquire land when values are not at a premium. This chapter discusses a strategy for land identification, use and development now and as growth continues. Recommendations are presented for acquisition of land for neighborhood parks, future athletics complexes and for new facilities that may benefit from specific land locations or conditions.
CHAPTER 13 CAPITAL PRIORITIZATION
Based on the park and facility recommendations found in Chapters 8 & 9, a listing of capital improvements and associated budgets are presented as a guide for determining future capital expenditures. The projects are given first, second, third and fourth priority ratings. While most of the recommendations are small to medium-scale capital projects, there are some larger-scale projects included that should be considered and implemented as funding becomes available and needs become more evident. Additional projects will be included that may be considered as maintenance or as capital projects should their scope warrant such designation. The projects are presented by park/facility and by overall priority.
APPENDICES A SOURCES
A listing of information sources that provided information that was utilized in the preparation of the Comprehensive Master Plan.
B 2010 COMMUNITY SURVEY
A copy of the 2010 Community Survey as was sent to 2,000 households within the Huntley Park District.
C COMMUNITY SURVEY COMMENTS
The final question on the 2010 Community Survey asked respondents for any additional comments about the Huntley Park District. The 105 comments received are presented in this Appendix.
CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Parks & Recreation
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PARKS & RECREATION

THE BENEFITS OF PARKS AND RECREATION
The Benefits are Endless. As the motto of the National Recreation and Park Association, this statement is meant to exemplify that parks and recreation provides benefits that transcend many aspects of our lives. When issues such as health, property values, environmental quality and alternative modes of transportation are discussed, these benefits are evident. Studies and surveys by local organizations throughout the country, as well as national organizations like the National Association of Realtors and the National Association of Home Builders, have illustrated the importance of parks, trails and open space to homebuyers and businesses alike. Residential properties in close proximity to public open space have been shown to have significantly greater value. Parks and open space near commercial and industrial properties are often considered a free employee benefit. Providing opportunities that allow people to walk or bike rather than use their cars promotes a cleaner environment. Park and recreation venues and programs also promote healthy lifestyles, providing opportunities to fight against obesity, heart disease and a variety of other health concerns. Meetings with local residents, stakeholders and park users show that there is a general community awareness of the benefits of parks and recreation, and the feeling that the Huntley Park District provides them well.
PARK & RECREATION TRENDS
As the Huntley Park District prioritizes capital and operational needs, and determines the direction of its programs and services, it is important to look at some of the park and recreation trends that may play a role in the District. These regional and national trends can affect future program and facility development. Some of the current trends, and what they mean to HPD, are described below.
By 2030 it is expected that 20% of the U.S. population will be considered a senior. Though most park and recreation agencies have significant programs for their senior constituency, and many provide dedicated venues for these activities, this surge in the senior population will not be met with current offerings. Studies also suggest that the aging baby boomer generation may not be as interested in the types of activities and programs that are typically offered today. Many more of this generation expects to be cycling, golfing, running, and participating in active sports well into their senior years. Activities that stimulate the mind are equally as important as physical activities. Cognitive health refers to maintaining and improving mental skills such as learning, memory, decision-making and planning. Studies have proven that fit seniors live longer, remain in their homes longer and participate more fully in community life.
AGING POPULATION
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PARKS & RECREATION

Never has it been more important for park and recreation agencies to enhance programming for this growing population. Partnerships with hospitals, senior centers and community organizations to promote organized health, recreation, fitness programs, therapeutic recreation and mental fitness will allow the senior population to maintain and improve their quality of life. The Huntley Park District encompasses Del Webbs Sun City in its entirety. Sun City, a community for those 55 years of age and over, has its own recreation programs, facilities and amenities that are for the exclusive use of their residents. Because the Sun City development is nearly built out, the growth in this population group will come from the other areas of the community as the Sun City population will largely remain the same. While the demographics of the other areas of the District are dominated by younger families, many of the older neighborhood areas of Huntley and the rural surrounds do have a vibrant senior population. HPD offers numerous programs for active adults, and has many Sun City residents utilize their programs and facilities. But as the senior population continues to grow and remain active, additional program types will be required that offer greater active, cognitive and motor components. HPD will need to explore greater collaboration with area healthcare agencies and with Sun City to develop and promote new programs.
Park and recreation agencies have jumped on the technology bandwagon in a big way in the last few years and in a variety of ways. Well beyond doing email blasts or simply having a website, Facebook, Twitter and Nixle are now common venues for interaction between park and recreation agencies and their constituents. These electronic venues can be used for a variety of things, from helping to fill programs in danger of cancellation to informing athletic teams of weather delays. They can also be used to develop a more spontaneous teen program offering or to encourage volunteerism. They get people involved. Live online program registration makes the process easier for both staff and program users. And offering WiFi provides a service to the community that can bring more people into recreation facilities. The Huntley Park District posts daily updates to its followers on Facebook, and is updating numerous operational services and programs to advance the District in the community.
COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGIES
RESOURCE TECHNOLOGIES
Other types of technological advances being embraced by the park and recreation industry are operations related. New irrigation technology reduces water loss. Artificial turf technologies eliminate the need for irrigation. Solar and wind technologies can reduce traditional outsourced energy needs, while simple things like motion sensors can offer safe and efficient lighting control. New work-order tracking systems can make maintenance scheduling and implementation more efficient for crews and eliminate waste. And, of course, hybrid vehicle technologies are becoming more available as car manufacturers compete for the green market share.
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PARKS & RECREATION

The Huntley Park District currently utilizes some of the simpler energy-saving systems, and staff members have expressed operational interest in solar, wind and irrigation technologies that can make a real difference. As costs come down and advances are made, HPD can consider hybrid vehicles and equipment to expand its green, stewardship role in the community.
Providing greater amounts of shade in parks is a trend that is a direct result of the climb in the number of cases of skin carcinoma and melanoma that come from overexposure to the harmful UV rays of the sun. Trees, shelters, canopies, awnings and other means of providing shade are being used in parks throughout the country as escapes from direct sunlight. Shade is especially important over, or near, amenities that are used for extended periods of time. Playgrounds, benches, spectator seating, team benches and other similar uses where people are exposed for long periods of time are being shaded. In other situations, like tennis or basketball courts, shaded areas are provided adjacent to the courts to provide a place to escape for short breaks. Adding more shade in parks is a healthy trend for the 21st century. While the Huntley Park District has been planting trees in many parks, this is an initiative that the District needs to develop further as most playgrounds, benches and other use areas were designed with little shade consideration given. Athletic field areas also need shade trees or structures adjacent to the backstops for players and fans to escape the sun.
SHADE
STEWARDSHIP OF THE LAND
Preservation and stewardship of environmentally sensitive areas are falling more and more to park and recreation agencies. All public lands, including parks, conservation areas, open space, trails and greenways, lakes, streams, and wetlands may offer significant fish and wildlife habitat that require a philosophy of protection and sustainability. Often times park and recreation agencies possessing unique natural resources must take extraordinary measures to protect fragile resource areas for their community, especially in communities where limited natural areas exist. This includes the need to limit or restrict access to some areas where particularly sensitive ecological systems are at work. But it also means providing access to natural areas where educational opportunities exist. Equally important and related to this stewardship role is the need to provide programs to the public that promote a greater understanding of our natural systems as well as an awareness of global environmental issues. Environmental programming is one of the fastest growing types of programs offered by park and recreation agencies. Whether classroom based activities or interpretive trails, environmental programs can provide a way to secure support for the philosophical approaches needed for stewardship.
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PARKS & RECREATION

The Huntley Park District has limited areas of open space that are within their control, as many of the wetland areas are under municipal, private or association management. The acquisition of land as open space should be considered as future growth continues. Red Hawks Rest, Deicke Park and Cottontail Park could be used as venues for environmental programs, while collaborative efforts with the McHenry County Conservation District and the Kane County Forest Preserve District will provide expanded opportunities for the Huntley Park District to promote stewardship through environmental education.
STAYCATIONING
The economic downturn in the last few years caused most people to reassess their budgets, including the way in which they participate in recreation activities. Instead of travelling to far off lands or even to the regional major attractions, many people, especially families, have decided to spend their vacation time at home. The staycation includes looking at local venues, programs and events as a way to enjoy the community in which people live. Neighborhood or community festivals offer a way for people to enjoy culturally diverse experiences. People participating in no-cost activities like cycling or hiking may be interested in programs or events that revolve around these modes. Staycationing provides park and recreation agencies with an opportunity to reach out to more residents of their community and to promote the local economy. The parks, festivals and programs offered by the Huntley Park District are important components of the staycation that can be successfully marketed to the local and surrounding communities.
FAMILY HEALTH INTERESTS
Families are engaging in life-long fitness and nutrition programs that are geared toward maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Healthy living is fundamental in improving ones physical and emotional health and social well being. Parks and recreation services play a vital role in encouraging people to develop and maintain healthy lifestyles by providing the programs, the facilities and the protected environment that allow people to be physically and socially active. A study by the National Recreation and Park Association found that, in terms of overall health, local park and recreation users reported fewer visits to a physician for purposes other than check-ups than did non-park users, even when controlling for the effects of age, income, education level, health status and other possible influences. Active people have longer life spans and are at less risk of developing diseases. Physical activity has also been shown to help people become more emotionally and mentally fit. Park and recreation agencies provide programs that families can enjoy together. These shared activities reduce family stress and allow families to share time together in constructive and healthy ways that are conducive to strengthening family bonds. In this way, the agencies foster the positive emotional and social impacts that create strong families.
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PARKS & RECREATION

The Huntley Park District provides a variety of programs for all members of the family, as well as family-oriented activities. There are many opportunities for health and wellness programs and activities that HPD can consider in helping to develop life-long park and recreation users.
OUTDOOR FITNESS FACILITIES
Another problem that has come with the economic slowdown is that individual spending on recreation and entertainment has declined, even though people are staying home during their vacation periods. Household funds are going to the essentials, with any leftovers being distributed toward a variety of other dicretionary expenditures. Participation in recreation is one of those budgetary items that are often considered discretionary. Physical inactivity, poor eating habits and the costs of healthcare have caused a decline in the health of our citizens that mirrors the economy. While paying for the use of a health club has deterred many individuals from maintaining their health, park and recreation agencies are starting to revisit the fitness station craze that was so popular in the 1980s and early 90s, but with a somewhat more high-tech approach. Trailside exercise stations and outdoor gymnasiums have begun sprouting up that provide a free work-out on state-of-the-art fitness equipment that is made for the outdoors. Outdoor equipment that is available includes many of the same elements found in a fitness club, including fitness bikes, presses, ellipticals, stairs, rowing, and a variety of other stations that can be spaced along a fitness trail or developed in a single outdoor gym location. These stations do not have electronics that measure distance, calories or repetitions, but they are significantly more high-tech than the old inclined wooden beam. The Huntley Park District can consider the viability of outdoor fitness stations as a means of encouraging greater health and wellness, appealing to a new group of park users, and promoting its Fitness Center during inclimate weather seasons.
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CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Community Profile
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COMMUNITY PROFILE
The Huntley Park District has an attribute that is somewhat unique in that its borders include most of the Village of Huntley, plus parts of two communities that have parks departments within their village governments Lake in the Hills and Algonquin. All three communities experienced significant growth and expansion during the 1990s and 2000s and have major development areas within HPD. The boundaries of the District encompass parts of four other zip codes as well, but those areas are rural farm lands with no development that plays into understanding the profile of the community served by the District.
Area History
The history of the area dates back to the 1700s when the Pottawatomie, a migrating group of Algonquin-speaking peoples, came south from the upper Great Lakes as they evaded the Iroquois tribes. By the late 1700s the Pottawatomie had established their farming, hunting and fishing rights in the northern Illinois region from the Fox River to Lake Michigan. Their knowledge of local culture and their ability as negotiators allowed both trade relations and cultural exchange with the French traders to develop. With the westward migration of settlers of English descent came a different relationship with the native cultures, and the Pottawatomie, along with other native communities, were driven further westward; signing away their land rights and abandoning their villages as they went. Black Hawk challenged the unfairness of the treaties signed with the U.S. government, and Pottawatomie groups participated on both sides of the resulting war. With the defeat of Black Hawks Sac and Fox nations by U.S. troops in 1832, all Pottawatomie groups, regardless of their allegiances during the war, were forced to move west of the Mississippi. By 1837 all Pottawatomie were gone from the Fox Valley region. Following the Black Hawk War, white settlers began to homestead in many areas west of Chicago. Kane and McHenry Counties were established in 1836 and 1837 respectively, and the first settlers to this area arrived from New England almost immediately thereafter. Some of those early settlers were from Grafton, New Hampshire, and thus Grafton Township was founded in 1850. Algonquins village along the Fox River was originally laid out in 1836, making it the oldest village in McHenry County. Thomas Stillwell Huntley and his family had arrived to the area in 1846; acquiring significant land holdings first to the north of the current Village of Huntley and later south. The region saw growth as a farm community that was especially suited to livestock due to low-lying areas that were not conducive to grain production. Dairy farming began to thrive, and in the 1850s the railroad arrived to transport dairy products, with separate rail lines passing through Algonquin and Huntleys Grove; where a general store, village park, post office and other services were developed when the trains arrived. The railroad access brought residents of Chicago out to enjoy the rural areas, with many establishing summer homes in the region. Over time, Algonquin, along the banks of the Fox River, became a resort community while the areas of Lake in the Hills and Huntley maintained their rural farm character and even experienced some hardship as farms defaulted and ownership changed. 19
COMMUNITY PROFILE
The Village of Huntley was incorporated in 1872, followed in 1890 by the Village of Algonquin. It wasnt until 1952 that Lake in the Hills incorporated as a governing body; just two years after a homeowners association had been formed to deal with road maintenance. During that entire time, the area slowly grew, but still maintained its agricultural character. While growth in Algonquin exploded in the 1980s, it was in the 1990s that the areas west of Randall Road began to experience the urban sprawl of Chicago, as residential, commercial and industrial development began to encroach on the rural character. The residential neighborhoods on the west side of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin ran into the Village of Huntleys eastward expansion. The transformation of the Huntley Schools from one elementary school and one high school in 1996 to grow into Consolidated School District 158 that has five elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school on three campuses is probably one of the primary ways in which the growth of the area is in evidence. While there were several sizeable residential subdivisions planned and developed, none compared to the Del Webb Sun City community developed on the west side of Route 47 between I-90 on the south and the Village of Huntley on the north. With almost six thousand homes for residents over 55 years of age, Sun City developed as a community that had no impact on the schools and only some impact on the Huntley Park District as Sun City has its own significant recreational offerings.
Today, growth has slowed due to the economic slowdown, with the population of the Huntley Park District approximately 40,000, including all of Sun City, most of the rest of the Village of Huntley and residential neighborhoods in Lake in the Hills and Algonquin. The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) has developed a 2040 Forecast of Population, Households and Employment that has some staggering projections for the region. The population of the Village of Huntley is projected to grow from just over 24,000 today to nearly 59,000 by 2040; more than doubling the current population. Lake in the Hills and Algonquin are both projected to grow by over 15,000 residents, many of whom may live within the boundaries of the Huntley Park District. Should these projections hold true, the resident population of the District could grow by 30-35,000 over the next thirty years. While the 2010 U.S. Census information is not yet available in order to develop a completely accurate view of the demographics, it is clear that the population within the boundary of the District is culturally diverse, but is still over 90% of European ancestry. Consolidated School District 158 has stated that there are students representing 27 different languages in the schools. Both the Latino population of the District and the Asian population are anticipated to be in the 3-4% range. The average annual household income is projected to be just over $110,000.
Population
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CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Community Visioning Process
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COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

OVERVIEW
The success of a public agency depends on the support of those who are served by the agency; whether their interests are general in nature or specific to the interests in which they are involved. The Huntley Park District has offered a variety of ways to engage the community, including the general public, user groups and stakeholders who collaborate with or have a vested interest in the District. HPD has solicited the views and needs of many individuals and groups in developing a future plan for the District, and is poised to undertake additional efforts to work with stakeholders and user groups in the future. The planning vision that comes from this involvement provides the basis for many of the goals and objectives in this Comprehensive Master Plan which will act to guide the District over the next five years and beyond. Representatives of key focus groups, stakeholders and members of the public participated in a series of meetings and interviews to gather their observations of the District and information specific to their needs. The HPD staff and Board members were also interviewed to gain an understanding of the District from within, as well as their vision and goals for the future. These meetings and interviews provided meaningful input to the planning process and were used to help develop a Community Survey that was later used to gain a scientific understanding of the interests and needs of the community.
The general public was given a variety of opportunities to provide input to the District during the planning process. Two community workshops were held at the Cosman Cultural Center as a means of providing the public with an open forum where they could express their views and needs. On a few occasions during the on-site assessments of the parks, informal discussions with park users took place. A Community Survey was conducted with 2,000 surveys sent to random households within the borders of the Huntley Park District. Just under 21% of the survey recipients responded. An analysis of the survey results is included herein.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
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The Huntley Park District conducted a Community Survey during the fall of 2010 that consisted of 13 questions intended to understand the interests and opinions of residents regarding the District. An opportunity for general comments was also provided. On October 19th, the survey was mailed to 2,000 District households; approximately 17% of the total households in the District. The 2,000 households were selected at random by a third party not involved in the HPD comprehensive planning process to ensure a completely random selection. Within a few days after the surveys were mailed, each household receiving a survey was called utilizing an electronic voice message that encouraged recipients to complete the survey. One week later, 140 surveys had been completed and returned. After two weeks, 250 surveys had been returned. This response rate resulted in HPD deciding not to initiate any reminder mailings. On November 29th, just under six weeks after mailing, the survey was closed. Of the 2,000 households selected, 413 chose to participate. With a response rate of nearly 21%, HPD exceeded its goal of 400/20% returns. The 413 returns translate to a statistical margin of error of +4.7% at a confidence level of 95%. The survey was designed to obtain statistically valid results from households throughout the District. Survey questions were prepared based on a number of influencing factors, including topics developed during stakeholder meetings, staff information needs, Park Board interests and current trends in park and recreation planning. There were questions that determined the demographic mix of the respondents, questions that ascertained current use of park facilities and programs by respondents and questions that asked the respondents to present and prioritize their interests in future HPD facilities/programs/services. Several questions allowed an other response that presented an opportunity for respondents to provide answers not included in the optional answers given. This, along with a general question asking for additional comments, provided a forum for respondents to give open input to HPD. Many of the questions pertaining to current use and future preferences contained the option of providing a response that was understood to mean that the respondent had no first-hand knowledge to be able to formulate a measured response, or had no opinion regarding the question. In presenting the survey results, those responses that provide a measurable response to a specific question are used to show qualitative and quantitative answers to the questions. Where appropriate, the percentages of non-measurable responses are presented for clarification purposes. A copy of the survey instrument as distributed to the public, and additional comments regarding the District provided by the respondents, can be found in Appendix B and Appendix C respectively.
COMMUNITY SURVEY
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DEMOGRAPHICS
1. Referencing the adjacent Huntley Park District map, in which area do you reside? The location of respondents helps develop an understanding of how the opinions of Park District programs and facilities might differ from one region of the community to another, and how needs might vary by region as well. When answers to questions are similar from one region to another, this illustrates that the respondents tend to look at the District offerings as a whole rather than through focusing on the area in which they live. In general, the survey respondents showed consistently high satisfaction and support of the Park District. For the purposes of this question the District was divided into four (4) quadrants utilizing major roadways as the division lines. Algonquin Road and the combined Harmony Road/Main street corridors are the east-west routes used to define the areas, while Illinois Route 47 is the north-south route that was used. The percentages shown represent the distribution of responses received. While the 2010 U.S. Census information is not available to confirm the exact distribution of the population within the District, the response percentages seem to be relatively accurate given the development patterns in each quadrant. Area A is mostly rural farm land, with the partially-built Talamore community the only major housing development in the area. Area B is the most developed part of the District, and includes that area of Lake in the Hills that falls within the HPD boundary. Area C is the location of the Del Webb Sun City 55+ community. Area D is a combination of rural and developed areas, and includes the Huntley village center area and that area of Algonquin that falls within the HPD boundary.
6.7%
38.6% 28.5%
26.2%
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2. What is your age and gender? The age and gender of respondents is important in understanding the types of user participating in the survey, their current use of HPD facilities and their interests for future facilities and programs. With over 47% of those surveyed falling into the 25-44 age bracket, it is likely that young families in the District are well-represented. These age brackets were especially well-represented in the northeast and southeast areas of the District, where most of the growth has occurred in the past 10-15 years. These respondents, as well as those in the 45-54 age bracket, are especially supportive of new initiatives for the District. Of those respondents in the 65+ age bracket, 78% live in the southwest quadrant where the Sun City development is located. Older respondents, some on fixed incomes, are less willing to support additional funding for athletics and active recreation initiatives, although the support for passive pursuits and environmental/cultural interests are in evidence. The 45-64 bracket represents the end of the baby boom generation. As some, but not a significant number, of the 55-64 respondents live in the southwest, it can be assumed that the baby boomers, if they remain in their existing neighborhoods, will cause a future need to expand on facilities and programs that appeal to the active adult crowd. GENDER OF SURVEY RESPONDENTS
50.6% 47.0%
Male Female No Answer
2.4%
AGE OF SURVEY RESPONDENTS
35.2%
17.6% 13.3%
15-19 20-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+
12.4% 20.7%
0.3%
0.6%
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3. Please indicate the number of people in your household in each age and gender group. This provides a look at the household demographics being represented by the respondent to the survey, and combined with Question 2, provides a look at the typical family unit represented by each respondent. Approximately 55% of the households responding have children living at home; with 38% in the elementary and middle school age brackets. Of the 226 households with children, 17 have children only of high school age, while 50 have children only not yet of school age. These figures match well with those households having adults from 25-54, with the 35-44 age bracket the highest population age group represented. But the family unit represented by this survey coupled with the demographic profile for the entire community makes it clear that HPD has a large number of young families whose recreational needs will continue to play a large role in determining HPD program and facilities needs now and in the future.
HOUSEHOLD AGE & GENDER PROFILE
140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0
Male Female
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PARKS, FACILITIES & PROGRAMS
4. During normal operation season for each facility, how often do you and members of your household use the following Huntley Park District parks and facilities? Neighborhood parks are visited at least a few times each year by 79% of the respondents, and once per month or more by at least 46%. Trails are used by over 57% of the respondents; a number that could increase if an overall community plan requiring linked corridors in new development were in place. Just under 50% of the respondents enjoy the Stingray Bay Family Aquatic Center, with 10% using the pool weekly during its operational season. These numbers are artificially low due to Algonquin residents ability to use the Village of Algonquin pool, and residents of Sun City having two outdoor and one indoor pool at their disposal. REC Center users are represented by 44% of the respondents, with 16% enjoying the facilities at least once per month. These numbers are relatively good when considering that Lake in the Hills, Algonquin and Sun City each have alternate venues for their residents to enjoy. Given its focus on one type of sport, Pinecrest Golf Clubs annual use rate of 40% is very high, especially in consideration of the availability of numerous other courses within a few miles. The athletic facility use is also significant due, in part, to the number of sports teams utilizing the fields each year, with 19% of the respondent households using the facilities on a monthly basis. PARK & FACILITY USE
Neighborhood Parks Athletic Facilities Bike/Pedestrian Trails Stingray Bay Aquatic Center Pinecrest Golf Club REC Center 0% 20% 40% 60% 80%100%
3+ Times/Week 1-2 Times/Week 2-3 Times/Month Once/Month A Few Times/Year
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Looking at how geographic location affects the use of parks and facilities yields results both obvious and interesting. Here are some of the cross-tabulations that are most applicable:
Over 56% of respondents in the northwest (Area A on Question 1) use the neighborhood parks at least once each month, and 49% on a weekly basis; numbers that are high given that there is only one park in that quadrant. Respondents in the southwest (Area C on Question 1) use HPD parks the least, as Sun City has its own parks and facilities. HPD park access requires travel of over 2 miles from Sun City even though they are in very close proximity at their nearest points. Twenty-two percent of residents in the southwest quadrant use HPD parks at least monthly. The area where people most use their parks annually are in the southeast (Area D on Question 1), where 88% of the respondents visiting their neighborhood parks each year. This area includes Ol Timers Park in an urban setting that generates significant use. Other neighborhood parks are located in some of the newer subdivisions, and Algonquin also has two neighborhood parks in this area. Younger adults, especially those with school-age children, use the parks significantly more than any other age group responding to the survey. The number of park visits decreases with each age category. This is not unusual as adults tend to use the parks less as children grow. Geographic use of the trails is very consistent except for the Sun City area, where HPD and Village trails are not readily available. Pinecrest Golf Club is most-used by those respondents living in the Sun City quadrant, with 44% enjoying golf there annually, and 19% coming at least monthly. Residents of this quadrant also golf at Pinecrest on a weekly basis more than twice as much as residents of other areas. Considering that Sun City has its own 18-hole course, and the number of other courses available to Sun City residents, their patronage of Pinecrest is significant. Respondents from the northeast and southeast quadrants (Areas B & D on Question 1) utilize athletic fields the most, with over 24% using these facilities at least monthly. This is likely a combination of use of neighborhood park fields and the community park fields located on the west side. Households with children under 14 years of age represent the highest users of athletic fields. REC Center use is consistent regardless of which quadrant respondents live in. Even 40% of those in Sun City use the REC Center annually. Family respondents living in the growth areas on the east side utilize Stingray Bay Family Aquatic Center 20% more than other respondents.
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5. On an annual basis, how many Huntley Park District recreation programs does your household participate in? Fifty-seven percent of all respondents and their families participate in some type of HPD programming in any given year, with 14% participating in 4 or more programs per year. These numbers are significant given that those residents living in Sun City, or within the village limits of Algonquin and Lake in the Hills, have alternative programs available to them through their communities. This illustrates the importance of HPD programming to the residents of the District community and shows that many residents have developed high levels of active participation with HPD. Of those not participating in HPD programming, a substantial number simply do not have enough free time to allow participation (see Question 7). It should be noted, however, that use of other recreation providers is also a significant reason that the program numbers are not even higher. This plays right into the fact that Sun City, Algonquin and Lake in the Hills each offer their own programs, with 60% of Sun City residents citing that as a primary reason for their lack of participation. Interestingly enough, however, 42% of Sun City residents do utilize HPD programs, with 8% participating in more than 4 programs annually. The highest levels of program participation came from those in the northeast and southeast quadrants, where many young families live. ANNUAL PROGRAM PARTICIPATION
43.0%
10 or more 8-9 6-7 4-5 1-3 None
10.3%
43.0%
1.7% 0.5%
1.5%
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6. Please indicate your level of satisfaction with the Huntley Park District for those areas in which you are familiar. FACILITIES Respondents satisfaction with facilities is extremely high, with Pinecrest Golf Club, Pinecrest Restaurant and Stingray Bay Aquatic Center each garnering over 80% Excellent/Good responses, and Deicke Park over 90%. The REC Center received a combined Excellent/Good response of nearly 79%, while the Fitness Center facility received just over 53%. Tomaso Sports Park received a combined Excellent/Good response of nearly 69%. Geographic ratings were fairly consistent for Pinecrest Golf Club, the REC Center and Deicke Park. Those living in the Sun City quadrant gave the Pinecrest Restaurant the highest ratings, while those same respondents gave the Fitness Center and Tomaso Sports Park the lowest ratings. The family users living in the northeast and southeast quadrants gave Stingray Bay the highest Excellent/Good ratings, while Sun City respondents gave Stingray Bay the highest percentage of Excellent ratings, which is a tribute to the District given the quality of the aquatic facilities in Sun City.
SATISFACTION WITH FACILITIES
Deicke Park Fitness Center Pinecrest Golf Club Pinecrest Restaurant REC Center Stingray Bay Aquatic Center Tomaso Sports Park 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Excellent Good Average Fair Poor
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PARKS Survey respondents expressed a high level of satisfaction with the Parks, with all categories receiving combined Excellent/Good ratings of over 75%, and with greater than 25% Excellent in each category. The playgrounds received the highest Excellent rating with almost 33%, while Safety received the highest combined Excellent/Good rating with over 86%. Amenities and Cleanliness of the parks received the lowest marks, though still over 75% positive. Comparing geographic location of respondents with park satisfaction, there is consistent satisfaction level throughout the District with most of the categories. Those living in the southeast quadrant consistently ranked each category the highest, sometimes expressing higher ratings of 10 points or more over the other areas. Respondents from the northwest quadrant gave park amenities the lowest mark, which could be a result of the unfinished amenities planned for Tomaso Sports Park. SATISFACTION WITH PARKS
Quality Maintenance Playgrounds Cleanliness Safety Amenities 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
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ATHLETIC FIELDS The overall satisfaction level with the athletic fields is generally positive, with the highest number of respondents in most categories giving a Good rating. Field Availability, Quality and Safety all received high marks of over 70% Excellent/Good. Only Spectator Seating and Restrooms received less than a 45% Excellent/Good combined response, and also received the highest number of Fair/Poor responses. The spectator seating at the ball fields is fairly typical for a park and recreation agency. The lack of seating at soccer/football fields could be a factor as could the need for shade to escape the hot sun. The restroom ratings likely are lower from those respondents that frequent fields where portable toilets are used. Shade over these facilities can make them more palatable as well. The turf condition rating, with 60% Excellent/Good, is relatively high considering some of the issues with weeds and uneven surfaces; though the competition fields are much better than those in some of the neighborhood parks. One interesting cross-tabulation finding is that those in the southwest Sun City quadrant consistently gave each category their lowest ratings when the residents there are probably the least likely to utilize the fields. SATISFACTION WITH ATHLETIC FIELDS
Availability Lighting Maintenance Parking Quality Restrooms Safety Spectator seating Turf 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
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PROGRAMS The Before/After School programs received the highest level of combined Excellent/Good responses, with over 82%. Seedlings Preschool received the highest level of Excellent responses at 34% and the second highest level of combined Excellent/Good responses, with over 77%. Athletics and Youth programs each garnered over 76% Excellent/Good ratings. Only one program group fell below the 50% positive response rate, that being Programs for Persons with Disabilities, which are a joint effort with the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association. Teen programs, which are some of the most difficult to provide, garnered a 53% combined rating. All the other program groups received ratings between 60% and 70%. Following the trends of some other questions, respondents in the northeast and southeast gave the best marks to programs geared toward children of all ages, while those in the southwest from Sun City particularly liked the Adult/Senior programs. The most consistent rating geographically was for Events. SATISFACTION WITH PROGRAMS
Adult/Senior Athletics Before/After School Day Camps Fitness & Wellness For Persons w/Disabilities Pinecrest Golf Seedlings Preschool Special Events Swim Teen Youth 0%
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20%
40%
60%
80% 100%
COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Huntley Park District communications services received relatively good marks from respondents. The professionalism of staff shines through with Customer Service by Staff receiving a nearly 84% combined Excellent/Good rating. Park District Publications, including the Seasonal Program Brochure and a variety of flyers, also scored highly with nearly 80%. This was followed closely by Availability of Program Information and Program Registration, with 77% and 72% respectively. The HPD Website received the lowest response in this category, but still with a positive response rate of 68%. The lowest ratings on the website came from the youngest respondents, those likely more technically inclined and interested in more interactive formats.
SATISFACTION WITH COMMUNICATIONS
Huntley Park District Publications Customer Service by Staff Availability of Program Information Program Registration Huntleyparks.org Website 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
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7. What are the reasons that you and members of your household do not use your parks and facilities, or participate in programs offered by HPD, more often? The overwhelming response to this question was a simple lack of time to enjoy the parks and programs, which is the typical response to this question. An additional 139 respondents identified that they use other recreation providers, which is understanable given that Sun City, the Village of Algonquin and the Village of Lake in the Hills each have recreation programs and facilities to offer their residents, and there are private recreation providers in the area that also compete for users. Issues dealing with the schedule of programs ranked the third highest reason for non-participation, an issue that was heard from other sources as well. Costs and fees associated with programs was the fourth most cited reason, especially for families, and especially in the current economy. The response that ability levels do not meet needs is an important concern as park and recreation agencies try to promote lifelong users of parks and recreation services. The do not know what is offered response is not a significant number, yet with the highly-rated Seasonal Program Brochure and other means of communications about programs and parks available, this level of response seems unwarranted. Some of the other responses identified a communications concern regarding some residents of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin who reside within the boundaries of HPD being unaware that HPD parks and services were available for their use. PARTICIPATION DETERRENTS
Not enough time Use other area recreation providers Scheduled when we can not participate Costs/fees are too high Nothing matches our interests Location Do not know what is offered Ability levels do not meet needs Access/Transportation Classes are full Safety concerns Customer service by staff Special needs not met Language barrier ADA Accessibility Other
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Respondents were allowed to provide multiple answers to this question
50
100
150
200

8. Do you or members of your household regularly participate in recreation activities offered by any of the following organizations?
Nearly 3/4 of the respondents identified other agencies and organizations that they frequent either in addition to or in lieu of HPD facilities and programs. This is certainly not surprising given that the Villages of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin offer recreation programs, facilities and services, Sun City has a wide variety of facilities, programs and clubs, and there are a number of golf courses and private fitness studios in the area. Nearly 25% of the respondents identified Sun City as an alternative provider, with the health club at Centegra nearly as many. While many individuals and families participate in school and church programs or belong to organizations that complement HPD, the number of possible HPD patrons utilizing other competing entities is something that needs to be considered in determining ways to bring those residents into the HPD family. USE OF ALTERNATIVE RECREATION PROVIDERS
Del Webb's Sun City Centegra Health Bridge Churches Other area golf courses Neighboring public park agencies Public/Private schools Private athletic teams/associations Other private fitness club Forest Preserve/Conservation District Boy/Girl Scout type organizations Lifetime Fitness - Algonquin Private recreation providers Area colleges Private tennis club YMCA/YWCA Other 0 20 40 60 80 100 120
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FUTURE PLANNING
9. What are the most effective resources for providing you with information regarding the Huntley Park District and its programs/services?
The Seasonal Program Brochure that is mailed out three times each year is by far the way most respondents hear about HPD programs, parks and services, with 82% naming this as an effective resource. The Districts website and their mailers and flyers are virtually tied as the second best resource for reaching residents, with just over 45% each. The website should be higher given the relative youth of the community, but needs enhancement to provide a more interesting and informative resource. Email blasts are still a more effective resource than Facebook and other social media, but the daily Facebook updates provided by HPD are a great way to keep informeed that many residents are simply not yet aware of. In fact, school flyers and word-of-mouth from Neighbors, Friends & Relatives could be used to promote the Facebook page. The responses for print media may show that newspapers are in decline, but the regional nature of many publications limits their effectiveness for a specific localized population. INFORMATION RESOURCES
Seasonal Program Brochure Huntley Park District Website Mailers & Flyers E-Mail Blasts School Flyers Neighbors/Friends/Relatives Northwest Herald The Daily Herald Huntley Journal Facebook/Twitter/Etc. Park District Staff Local Cable TV First Electric Newspaper Other 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90%
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10. When considering your needs and interests for the future, which Huntley Park District initiatives are you most interested in supporting?
It is very surprising in a down economic environment to get responses in support of so many of the initiatives that were presented. Support for an indoor pool facility garnered over 43%. Minigolf was close behind with 41%, followed by expansion of Stingray Bay with 33% support. The next four facilities that garnered support include three relatively significant new facilities that could require land acquisition just to have a location to build them. While land acquisition only garnered about 20% support, it is clear that this is an important need as community growth continues. Some of the items that received fewer votes, like an outdoor performing arts space or a disc golf course, may be developed much sooner than other higher-rated initiatives simply because they are significantly less costly, but will offer great returns in use. Looking at how demographics played into the responses, those respondents living in the northwest showed the greatest interest in land acquisition and in a nature center, though Sun City residents also support those initiatives, as well as the Sun Valley Farmstead restoration. Support for the top three initiatives was fairly evenly distributed both in age and locational responses. With seven of the initiatives garnering over 20% support and the indoor pool over 40%, the District should be poised to develop a marketing campaign when the economy shifts that will lead to future develoment of these key facilities. FUTURE SUPPORT
New Indoor Swimming Pool Mini-Golf Expand Stingray Bay Aquatic Center New Nature/Environmental Center Indoor Ice Facility Spray Pools in Neighborhood Parks New Indoor Sports Facility Land Acquisition/Open Space Outdoor Performing Arts Space Sun Valley Farmstead Preservation New Disc Golf Course None Other 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45%
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11. When considering program and facility needs over the next five years, what do you think will be of interest to members of your household?
Adult (21-55+) Programs garnered the most responses with nearly 34%, as adults are interested in being more active, and HPD expansion of programs for adults is a critical need. Running/walking, fitness and swimming each also garnered over 25%, which is similar to responses in other regional communities. Seven of the top nine responses are sports and fitness related, showing that active uses will continue to be of great importance. Then eight of the next twelve responses are much more passive in nature, with several of them related to various types of performing arts and programs that are mostly for adult enjoyment. While many amenities/activities like volleyball, skateboarding, lacrosse and bocce did not receive overwhelming response, many activities like these attract a significant patronage once the amenities are provided. Volleyball and lacrosse are sports that are gaining more interest in schools, while activities like bocce provide an easy way to keep the senior population active and outside. And low responses on things like tennis could be caused by the lack of courts within any of the community or neighborhood parks. The lower rated need for pre-school may seem like a downward shift, but the percentage of responses still shows a strong need for preschool, and an even greater need for before/after school programs and summer camps. Weekend programs garnered nearly 15%, supporting the response to Question 7 regarding program scheduling affecting the ability to participate. Another key item to consider is that nearly 10% of the respondents identified an interest in volunteerism. FUTURE NEEDS
40
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12. When planning for the future, how should the Huntley Park District prioritize each of the following areas?
Park & Facility Maintenance was clearly considered the highest priority with 52% of respondents calling it a First or High priority. Developing Bike/Ped Trails garnered 46% of the First or High priority combination, and was the highest rated overall First priority with 17%. This initiative requires collaboration with the municipalities and schools. Upgrading Parks & Facilities, with 36% calling it a First or High priority, shows an interest in making sure that what HPD already has is more important than New Amenities or New Facilities; each of which garnered a rating under 35%. An interesting anomaly is that Developing New Programs did not receive great support in this question, yet was the #1 interest identified in the previous question. Similarly, Expanding Golf Opportunities was the lowest priority item, yet was the 8th highest interest in the previous question. Land Acquisition was prioritized low here, with only 26% giving it a First or High priority level. Public Outreach and Communications/Marketing are not priorities to most respondents, who are apparently satisfied with the current efforts of the District. PRIORITIZATION
Park & Facility Maintenance Developing Bike/Ped Trails Upgrading Parks & Developing New Park Developing New Programs Developing New Facilities Land Acquisition Public Outreach Communications/Marketing Expand Golf Opportunities 0% 50% 100%
First Priority High Priority Moderate Priority Low Priority Not a Priority Don't Know No Answer
Please use the space below to provide any additional comments regarding the Huntley Park District that will assist in planning for the future.
Approximately 105 additional comments were presented by survey respondents. These vary from general accolades or concerns to comments about very specific elements. The comments received are presented in Appendix C.
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Two public workshops were held to solicit comments from the general public. The workshops were held on Thursday evening, August 26th and Saturday morning August 28th, with a total of seven individuals participating in the workshops. These workshops were advertised in local media, on the HPD website, and at HPD and community facilities. Because the sample size is small and the participants in this type forum are generally residents who come due to their specific interests in parks and recreation activities in their community, these types of workshops are not considered to be scientific in their results, but rather offer an exploratory way to gauge public opinion. A Comment Form was also available for the participants to fill out, with three individuals providing additional feedback in this manner. At the workshops, a presentation was made that focused on describing the steps being taken during the planning process being undertaken and providing a general overview of the District. Following this presentation, the participants were given an opportunity to express their views and provide their comments on the future needs and direction of HPD. Comments/findings from this meeting and the comment forms include:
PUBLIC WORKSHOPS
GENERAL COMMENTS

Make sure that HPD is prepared to adequately maintain parks and facilities well before adding more HPD has great facilities and friendly staff Stingray Bay, REC Center, Pinecrest and Cosman are great facilities Tomaso is a positive addition for athletics in the community Childrens sports programs are well run Picnic shelters are very nice; add to the parks quality Discovery Zone is wonderful The Fitness Center is an important offering since the private clubs are too fancy and too expensive Partnering with Centegra/Lifetime possibilities Hours of operation/program scheduling need to be more available to commuters after work More adult programs are needed, including continuing education (maybe in collaboration with schools) More free events/programs needed Amenities like tennis, bocce & horseshoes missing from parks Bike trail system in community is weak/disconnected/not well planned Program costs exceed other area agencies Athletic field schedules should be posted on website Preschool schedule needs to be coordinated better with K-12 schools as regarding inservice days, vacation schedules, start dates, etc. Land acquisition is a need and should be done now while property values are lower
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PROGRAM INTERESTS

More movie nights More programs for adults Later evening & weekend programs Continuing education programs HPD golf tournament Expanded junior golf and caddie programs Expanded fitness program hours July 4th location change collaborate with schools More open events of varied interests that are free to the public
PARK & FACILITIES INTERESTS

Mini-golf Future indoor pool should be considered Nature center Bridge over pond at Deicke Deicke Park building available for events/meetings Amphitheatre/band shell Tennis courts needed Ice skating venue (with boards for hockey) Gardens/Rose Garden Finish Tomaso Park improvements, including shelter, playground, concessions, drinking water, bathrooms & lighting Equestrian property north of Tomaso for possible acquisition Quarry site on Foster Road for possible acquisition Driving range/mini-golf site on West Algonquin for possible acquisition Fieldhouse/indoor soccer Dog park Landscape upkeep/improvements needed Additional winter sports venues/activities Volleyball sand is hard-pack and needs more regular maintenance Additional sled hill Integrated trail network
PUBLIC COMMENT CONCLUSIONS
The comments expressed by those residents attending the workshops and in written form provide additional insight into the interests and concerns of residents who have a definitive interest in the Huntley Park District. Many of the comments and interests expressed in these meetings were also expressed in the stakeholder meetings, survey responses and by members of the HPD staff and Board of Commissioners. As such, comments made by the workshop participants have been incorporated into many of the recommendations for programs, park and facility improvements, land acquisition and operational needs.
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A series of stakeholder and user group meetings were organized to gain insight into the relationships between the Huntley Park District, other public agencies serving the community, users of HPD facilities, partners in programming and special events, or other groups representing interests in parks and recreation. These meetings, held in late September and early October of 2010, provide an understanding of the collaborative nature of the relationships and how they can be strengthened in the future. During the meetings participants were asked about the working relationship of their agency or organization with the HPD. Questions were asked regarding the strengths and weaknesses of the District, the challenges faced by HPD and the general quality of HPDs services to the community. Some more focused questions were asked of certain groups or individuals who have specific knowledge that is of value to the future planning for the District. The organizations represented included:

STAKEHOLDER MEETING OVERVIEW
Village of Huntley Huntley Police Department Huntley Fire Department Huntley Public Works Huntley Area Public Library Consolidated School District 158 Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association Village of Lake in the Hills Village of Algonquin Huntley Youth Baseball Little League Huntley Travel Baseball Huntley Youth Football Players Choice Academy Pro Players Sports Academy Huntley Area Jaycees Huntley Rotary Club Sun City Lions Club Huntley lions Club Century 21 Harris Bank Citizens Bank American Community Bank Sun City Heritage Woods Huntley Senior Citizens Club Senior Program Users Recreation Program Users
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The individuals participating in the stakeholder and focus group meetings presented a diverse look at the Huntley Park District and provided valuable feedback that contributes to the numerous recommendations relative to parks, facilities, programs, partnerships and communications. There were interesting insights and discussions of issues that affect HPD and the community as a whole. Questions that were asked of all groups garnered responses that were quite diverse from one group to another as perceptions and attitudes differ. Some of the key findings, by topic, are as follows:
IMPORTANT FUNCTIONS OF THE HUNTLEY PARK DISTRICT

Promote health & fitness Add value to the community/property values Open athletic opportunities for children Recreation programs promote culture Provide major community activity venues o Stingray Bay o Pinecrest Golf Club o Deicke Park o Cosman Cultural Center o REC Center
Adding value to the community is a known benefit of parks and recreation. The business community especially understands this benefit is a very positive statement about HPD. The HPD facilities are very important community gathering places that meet the diverse needs and interests of the community. Parks and recreation play a key role in battling health issues related to obesity, diabetes and other diseases that are so widespread. HPD provides an important function in providing lifelong learning and recreational activities to the community.
IMAGE IN THE COMMUNITY

Provides great parks and services Very positive image Great facilities Good programs Nice playgrounds Good athletic venues May be taken for granted A bonus for residents in LITH & Algonquin
The District is perceived to have a relatively low profile, marketing their events and programs, working with other area agencies, but not significantly involved in lots of other community activities, clubs, etc. Residents of Algonquin and Lake in the Hills that live within the boundaries of HPD are confused about being served by multiple park and recreation agencies, yet those other agencies see it as a positive thing for those residents. There is a feeling that greater collaboration between agencies is possible and sometimes needed. Residents know that the District exists and know what it offers, but do not get actively involved in finding out more about the District or understanding its role in the community. HPD needs to step up and take charge in the community to promote greater HPD awareness.
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CHALLENGES FACING THE DISTRICT
Economy/Funding o Capital needs o Operations Park & facility maintenance ADA compliance Competition from private recreation providers Competition with other area recreation agencies Diversity of programs Partnerships/collaboration needs Community pride Lake in the Hills & Algonquin Website Marketing itself Need for more and more athletic venues
Funding in this economy is a challenge on many fronts, including residential foreclosures and business closings reducing tax base, families budget their income to more important things, etc. There is a general feeling that HPD needs to focus more attention on maintenance of existing parks and facilities, as the public wont support additional parks and facilities that stretch staff too thin. Competition with Lake in the Hills, Algonquin, Sun City, Centegra, etc. is looked at as an opportunity for great collaboration to minimize redundancies and provide better services for the entire community. There is some feeling that HPD needs to take more interest in their residents living in Lake in the Hills and Algonquin to ensure that they see the value of dual recreation service providers. Because the economy has affected business support of community initiatives throughout the country, significant networking and research is now required to find companies, and the right contacts within those companies, to obtain obscure grants for community projects. Upgrading the HPD website is a critical need to properly market the District.
NEEDS
More program variety o Adult programs o Continuing Ed/Instructional programs o Expanded age sports programs Face to face time with Lake in the Hills, Algonquin & Sun City o Common issues o Common goals o Early project planning o Program development o Collaborative opportunities Athletic organization collaboration o Regularly scheduled group meeting to discuss commonalities o Partnering to build new facilities o Build on volunteer interests o Involvement in new athletic venue planning/design
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Athletic improvements/needs o Parking o Lighting o Concessions o On-site Code Blue and AED safety equipment (and training) o Field turf to extend playability of fields o Team benches Regional Facility Needs o Indoor pool o Field house o Athletic complex o Integrated trail system
Clearly the needs identified by the stakeholders and user groups focused on new facilities and programs but even more so on collaboration in place of competition. The athletic group was the only one that had a high interest in a defined list of park and facility improvements. The athletics group, along with representatives of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin, expressed an interest in more athletic facilities to meet the needs of a still growing region. The success of the meeting with the athletic group created an interest in having regular meetings to discuss common goals and needs, with HPD leading the meetings. The schools expressed interest in HPD managing their middle school athletic fields and in looking at future collaboration on venues that can benefit both the schools and HPD. Lake in the Hills, Algonquin and Sun City representatives all expressed interest in increasing collaborative efforts.
HPD STAFF & COMMISSIONER VISIONING
Engaging the Board and staff in the planning process is one of the more important exercises that can take place in the development of a Comprehensive Master Plan for a variety of reasons. The Board and staff have a better understanding of the parks and facilities, operations, finances and potential solutions to issues than anyone else possibly can. They provide the insiders view of the agency. They understand the community that they serve, and take pride in the work that they do on behalf of the community. Ultimately, it is the Board and staff that will use the document to guide their work, so garnering their ideas and vision for the District also provides a sense of ownership in the Plan that will, hopefully, provide them with a good reason to implement the recommendations that they helped develop.
The five Commissioners were interviewed individually to discuss their background, why they became members of the Board, their goals, concerns and ideas for the future. On average the Commissioners have lived in the District for nearly 20 years and have served on the Board an average of 7.5 years. They visit and use HPD parks and facilities fairly regularly, with variances that come with seasonal changes. All expressed positive feelings about their work on the Board, and believe that their time is well spent. Each Commissioner had different reasons for getting involved, including interests in health and well-being, previous work with recreation agencies carrying over to their personal lives, giving back to the community and interest in promoting childrens activities.
BOARD OF COMMISSIONER INTERVIEWS
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There seems to be a general perception that the public takes interest in HPD only as it relates to their use of parks and facilities, with little contact from the public regarding any operational issues. They all believe that the community values the District and enjoy the programs and services offered. Several years ago the District transitioned from a Board-run agency to one operated by the staff. The relationship between the Board and staff is characterized as excellent, though with little interaction except with the Executive Director and, at times, with department heads. While some would prefer more interaction between Board and staff to encourage a more open relationship, others respect the idea that direct discussions can appear as micromanagement to staff members, and thus try to work through administrative channels. The Commissioners recognize that the HPD staff has built a strong relationship with the Village of Huntley and Consolidated School District 158, resulting in collaborative initiatives between them. There is no relationship between the Board and the elected officials of other public agencies. There is also recognition that relationships with Lake in the Hills, Algonquin and Sun City are minimal with the perception that they could be beneficial, but difficult to initiate. Each Commissioner identified the HPD staff as being one of the best things about the District showing enthusiasm and a willingness to work hard to better the District. The District has a good mix of facilities, needs to find out from the public what else is needed, and then figure out how to pay for it. There is a recognized spirit of cooperation in the community that translates to both the Board and the staff. Maintenance of parks and facilities, land acquisition, funding, program diversity, program scheduling, and prioritizing capital initiatives were some of the challenges identified. There is also some concern that after ten years of rapid growth and working in a fast-paced environment motivation of the staff and the Board to keep moving forward is needed. The Commissioners identified a variety of initiatives for the future, including:

Land acquisition now during the down economy Indoor pool Field house Maintenance facility Disk golf Climbing wall Second recreation center Dog park Trail development Connectivity between Sun City & Deicke/Warrington Stingray Bay expansion Sun Valley Farm restoration Outdoor adventure site More athletic fields Filling in program age gaps Program updates Website upgrades Marketing and promotion initiatives Collaboration with Union and Marengo Greater Board involvement in other community initiatives
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DEPARTMENTAL INTERVIEWS
Seven senior staff members were interviewed individually to discuss their backgrounds, departments, goals, concerns and opportunities for the future. Each of the staff members has an educational and/or work history background in their area of expertise. All have been with HPD for periods ranging from 5-22 years. The senior staff show a real dedication to their work, enthusiasm for the District and an interest in doing what is right to improve the District. The interviews with each staff member were varied due to their specific position and oversight. As such, some were asked wide-ranging questions on a variety of topics while other interviews were more focused. Senior staff have a good relationship with the Board, and appreciate both the willingness of the Commissioners to be participatory in the Board meetings and their hands-off approach in the field. They describe the Board as very supportive, and willing to let the staff do their jobs. The senior staff believe in their product; being proud of the quality of their parks and facilities, and their program offerings. They are customer-oriented, and enjoy a flexible staff that can get things done. Each identified several key issues that affect their department, including capital and budgeting needs, staffing needs, competitions, motivation and being overextended for time. The senior staff members identified a variety of operational needs and initiatives for the future, including:

Locating administrative staff in one place New computers/servers IT staff in-house Marketing staff Facility and program tracking Website upgrades Computer training Marketing & promotion initiatives Stingray Bay expansion Land acquisition ADA audit Tour other successful park districts Marketing Plan Mini-golf Climbing wall Park design modifications New maintenance facility Tennis courts Better skate park Athletic field irrigation Golf course irrigation Park maintenance staff Golf cart storage Golf course improvements Indoor sports complex Wind/solar initiatives Better work order system Maintenance Schedule Repair & Replacement Plan
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ALL-STAFF MEETING
A modified SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analysis workshop was held to involve as many of the regular staff personnel as possible. A series of staff demographic questions were asked first to understand the general background of the team. HPD staff show pride in their jobs and in the product that they offer. They recognize that District has a good mix of facilities that are the centerpiece of the community. They identify program diversity, customer service and the hometown feel of the community as important character elements for the District. The staff is very customer-oriented, and look for innovative ways to get things done. Most of the meeting participants identified several key issues that affect their department, but were even more apt to identify concerns relative to the District as a whole. A variety of concerns and operational needs were identified, including: Advertising/marketing program Marketing staff Add staff to meet expanded parks/facilities Let managers manage Rec Track program/licenses IT staff Evaluate competitive pay scales in area Loss of pool/fitness users to Centegra Loss of staff to Centegra More maintenance staff The staff members also identified a variety of initiatives for the future, including: More winter sports activities Toilets/drinking fountains all parks and golf course Use of green technologies New maintenance facility REC Center security system More facilities More parks Facility upgrades to keep things new New fitness equipment Marketing plan to determine who uses HPD Indoor pool Stingray Bay expansion Golf and athletic field irrigation New computer system Better park wayfinding The HPD staff seems to have a great understanding of the community that they serve, with many of their interests and park/facility initiatives similar to those identified by the public, stakeholders and user groups. Their interests are in providing quality services to the community and were able to identify their needs to do so in a more efficient manner.
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52
CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan HPD Profile & Operations
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PROFILE & OPERATIONS

Mission Statement
The Huntley Park District is committed to providing accessible parks, programs, open space and facilities for healthy activities, creative expression and learning opportunities in order to enhance the quality of life for district residents and visitors.
The Huntley Park District covers nearly 44 square miles and serves a population of approximately 40,000 residents. The District currently owns 380 acres of land that includes 12 parks, and utilizes or maintains land/amenities owned by the Village of Huntley and Consolidated School District 158. There are two additional neighborhood park properties designated in two subdivisions, with development dependent upon future buildout of those subdivisions. HPD also has a variety of facilities that meet many of the specific recreation needs of the residents, including the REC Center, Cosman Cultural Arts Center, Pinecrest Golf Club and Stingray Bay Family Aquatic Center. The Huntley Park District boundaries encompass portions of municipalities outside of the Village of Huntley, including small, largely undeveloped, areas of Union, Crystal Lake and Dundee. More significant areas of the Village of Lake in the Hills and the Village of Algonquin are within the HPD boundaries, with the land within those areas approximately 80% developed. The Huntley Park District has experienced a rather intensive ten years of growth during which most of its parks and all of its facilities were developed. The HPD parks and facilities are generally in very good to excellent condition and offer great recreational opportunities for the community. Balancing the maintenance needs of the parks and facilities with the enhancement needs is of primary importance, as there are many new facilities on the wishlist of the residents and District, but there is ongoing proactive maintenance required that the District accomplishes, but with limited resources.
Overview
Organization
The Huntley Park District is governed by a five-member Board of Commissioners who are elected by the residents of the District to six-year terms that stagger every two years. The Board provides the policy direction of the District and employs an Executive Director and administrative staff to administer the day-to-day operations of the District.
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The organizational structure of the staff is a modified pyramid structure, where five Directors of Finance/HR, Recreation, Parks, Facilities and Golf report to the Executive Director. There is a very open door policy within the District that transcends the management levels. HPD staff members are encouraged to use their own creativity in their jobs and show enthusiasm about their work and the agency that they represent. There are approximately 30 full time HPD staff members, mostly in administrative and supervisory roles, finance, maintenance and programs, plus the staff of Pinecrest Golf Club and the Fitness Center. During the summer season, the staff swells to over 200, including seasonal full and part-time staff that fill roles in maintenance, aquatics, programs, concessions and various other operational needs. An organizational chart is shown below.
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History
The Huntley Park District was founded in April of 1965 by leaders of the community, including Edwin and Lois Deicke. Purchasing a part of Donahoes Woods and donating it to the District, Edwin Deicke was one of the first elected members of the Board of Commissioners, along with Michael Kiley, Edward Piske, Lima Tessendorf and Irv Wasserstrass. The Board meetings were initially held at the Deickes Sun Valley Farm homestead. Deicke Park was renamed in honor of Edwin and Lois, and included a variety of active and passive recreation features, including a ball field, trails and picnic areas. The log cabin, built in the 1920s by the Huntley Boy Scouts, was moved to its present location in Deicke Park in the 1990s. Sun Valley Farm, which dates back to the 1840s, was designated as an historic landmark by the McHenry County Historic Preservation in 2001. Ol Timers Park was the second park to be developed for recreation by the District, dating to 1984. Beginning in 1999 with the development of Cottontail Park and through the 2000s, the Huntley Park District took on its decade of expansion as the community realized unprecedented population growth. Under the leadership of Executive Director Thom Palmer and Board President Chuck Yerke, HPD began development of many of the neighborhood parks, community parks and facilities that make up the District today. Dedicated in June of 2002, Stingray Bay Family Aquatic Center was one of the largest pool complexes in the area. In June of 2003, the District purchased the Pinecrest Golf Club. In 2004, the school district sold the old Huntley High School building to the District for use as a recreation center. A substantial gift from the Cosman family to be used for performing arts provided the District with the opportunity to open the REC Center and Cosman Cultural Center in April of 2005. The Tomaso Sports Park opened in 2006 as the Districts need for more athletic fields was realized. Tomaso, along with Red Hawks Rest, Ruth Family Park and Borhart Family Park, represent the newest additions to the District.
During the planning process a vast amount of information about the Huntley Park District was gathered and utilized to develop recommendations for park and facility improvements as well as program modifications. A significant amount of time was spent in assessing the existing parks and facilities, understanding the growth of the community, reviewing survey results, talking with the HPD staff and Board, and hearing from stakeholders and user groups. All of this information, when synthesized and evaluated in more detail, creates many recommendations beyond those for parks, buildings and programs. A series of operations recommendations have been developed that address a number of other aspects of the Huntley Park District. Many of these recommendations are written to promote ongoing activities that are important to the agency. Others are ideas that will help improve the District on a variety of fronts. While these recommendations may not necessarily be unique, they state a common sense approach that is needed in many park and recreation agencies, and are seen as important to HPD. The recommendations are presented in specific topic areas with an introductory statement as to their need and purpose. These recommendations expand on the Districts Mission Statement to express improvements in the following areas:
Operational Recommendations
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Administration Workplaces that instill a sense of value in their employees are successful in recruiting and sustaining a creative, energetic and loyal workforce. Developing administrative techniques that are consistent in delivery and equitable in interpretation produces agencies that operate efficiently and creatively in the best interests of the community. The Huntley Park District provides an excellent working environment that:
Promotes staff and Commissioner diversity to ensure that the park and recreation philosophies of HPD are consistent with the community being served. Periodically assesses the structure of the District administration to ensure that the District operates in an efficient and effective manner that meets the changing needs of the community. Encourages staff and Commissioners to continue to participate in community projects and civic organizations in an ongoing manner to promote HPD interests and develop working relationships throughout the community. Encourages HPD staff to use their expertise and initiative in developing new and creative approaches to the fulfillment of their positions. Prioritizes funding park and facility maintenance as the most important means of proactively providing a high quality product for the community before undertaking additional major capital initiatives. Always include and encourage departmental staff in decisions affecting their departments, including development of operating budgets and capital improvement recommendations. Continues to encourage conservation practices in all facilities, including recycling, energy conservation, alternative transportation modes, paper reduction and other techniques that promote environmental sensitivity.
Board/Staff Education The Huntley Park District has a professional staff with significant background in their areas of expertise both within and outside a parks and recreation environment. And the makeup of the Board of Commissioners includes a good mix of ages and interests that includes a background in parks and recreation outside their involvement with HPD. On-going Board and staff training is a key to continuing high quality services that can maintain high levels of customer satisfaction and interest. Training is also important in keeping up with trends in a variety of service areas within parks and recreation. From recreation trends to management style and information technology, training can come in many forms that will continue to benefit HPD. Keeping programming new and vibrant, dealing with customers in a positive manner and understanding the end user are all areas where training can help maintain quality. The Huntley Park District does an excellent job in staff and Board development that should continue to expand as community needs change.
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The Huntley Park District should continue to:
Develop a trackable staff training program that provides consistent annual educational courses in both broad and job-specific areas that are expanded over time. Continue to utilize regional and national park and recreation conferences as a means for both staff and Board development. Provide on-going customer-service training for all front-line staff, including all seasonal staff and volunteers, that promotes improved personal communications techniques, an overall knowledge of the District and training in specific areas represented by each individual. Broaden staff knowledge of the District through research and presentation of topics of interest, whether in program development, maintenance procedures, computer technologies or other areas that provides cross-educational opportunities. Develop a Board training program to enhance awareness of national and regional issues and trends in parks and recreation, business planning, professional ethics, team building and other subjects important to agency management. Engage local and regional professionals to speak to employee groups on general topics and on procedures that are job-specific. Keep up with technological improvements in everything from computer technologies to maintenance applications in order to maintain efficient use of resources.
Financial Resources While tax revenues, grants and program fees continue to provide a substantial portion of park and recreation agency funding, development of alternative funding sources through corporate partnerships is a trend designed to provide a means of increasing the quality of programs and facilities for the benefit of the community. It is important to balance the use of funding in an equitable manner that provides the necessary resources for daily operations as well as capital improvements. Following the past decade of growth, now is a perfect time for HPD to assess and prioritize its operational resources, major capital project feasibility and acquisition opportunities to best meet the future needs of the community.
Make existing park and facility maintenance and scheduled replacement of amenities and equipment, the first priority in developing annual operational and capital budgets for the District. Consider likley staffing, maintenance and operational budgets prior to prioritizing major new capital projects ahead of existing park and facility needs. Utilize a detailed Repair and Replacement Plan to proactively prepare for upcoming capital and maintenance needs. The R&R Plan should act as a standard tool in developing annual budgets especially for the Parks and Facilities Departments. 59

Perform annual assessments of the relationships between facility/program user fees, quality and measure of use to determine if fee alignments are appropriate. Continue to work toward the goal to ensure that programs and facilities are selfsustaining to the greatest extent possible. Seek to utilize alternative, non-tax funding sources, including sponsorships and grants, to fund all or part of new initiatives. Continue to develop partnerships and promote sponsorship packages that include combinations of the website and other HPD publications without requiring superfluous name placement requirements in return. Design new and creative opportunities for sponsorship of parks, programs, events and facilities. Broaden the utilization of the Huntley Park Foundation, the Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce and other civic organizations to assist in developing corporate partnerships and sponsorships that will benefit the District.
Collaboration Relationships between public agencies, and between public and private agencies, provide opportunities that may not exist within any one agency. Public agencies serving the same community have a unique opportunity to work together to address common goals and needs, and to work in a collaborative manner to make things happen. Agencies serving different communities, likewise, often find that collaborative efforts fill a need in their community. And business collaboration can provide a way for park and recreation agencies to realize goals that may not otherwise be possible. The Huntley Park District has positive relationships with many agencies, organizations and businesses that work collaboratively for the betterment of the community, maintaining strong and open relationships with the Village of Huntley, Consolidated School District 158, the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association, the Huntley Park Foundation, numerous businesses and business organizations, and the various athletics and social organizations in the community. HPD, the Village of Huntley, Consolidated School District 158, Huntley Area Public Library, and Huntley Fire Protection District meet regularly to assist in developing collaborative opportunities and addressing common community issues. Maintaining open communications and understanding the common goals and interests of other agencies allows HPD to work in a collaborative manner to provide enhanced services and facilities to the community. As the need for land and facilities continue to be a common need of many agencies, the collaboration between all governmental units and organizations becomes ever more important.
Commit to the Mission of the Huntley Park District and its established goals as the basis for all collaboration with other agencies.
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Continue to participate in interagency meetings with the Village, Library, Schools, Police, Fire, etc. Encourage additional participation by the Townships, Counties and other agencies to establish common interests. Coordinate regular meetings between Recreation Department staff and representatives of all the athletics organizations to discuss scheduling, field conditions, safety and other common issues and opportunities. Encourage greater collaboration between Huntley athletics organizations and comparable organizations in Lake in the Hills and Algonquin to promote joint utlization, scheduling and development of athletic venues in the area. Develop greater communications with the Kane County Forest Preserve District and McHenry County Conservation District to explore opportunities for collaborative development and operations of facilities, and for collaborative development of environmental education programs. Develop greater communications with Centegra to encourage joint development of HPD programs relative to health and wellness in the community. Consider greater collaboration with the Village of Lake in the Hills and the Village of Algonquin to explore progam offerings and eliminate redundancies, fill in program gaps, cross-promote and open programs offered by all three agencies to the residents of each at resident rates. Collaborate with the Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce in the marketing of the Huntley Park District. Work closely with community organizations such as the Rotary Club, Lions Club, Jaycees and others to educate their members about the role of HPD, its accomplishments and its future goals. Continue to nurture existing relationships and build new relationships with agencies and organizations that serve the community.
Customer Service Customer service is an important factor in park and recreation agencies because contact with the clientele (residents) happens at a variety of levels and for a variety of reasons. From assisting with program registration and complaints to ensuring access to programs and facilities, customer service requires communications skills, adequate technology and collaboration to operate effectively. The Huntley Park Districts front line customer service staff does a great job in representing the District in a professional and knowlegeable manner.
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Continually monitor the quality of customer service through user satisfaction surveys, including direct point-of-contact questionnaires that can be placed in drop-boxes at each facility and online questionnaires when services are provided. Enhance online registration visibility and ease of use to make it more accessible to all who prefer that method of registration. Consider online live registration to enhance program accessibility. Continue to work with the athletic organizations to further develop and maintain consistent policies for the use of HPD facilities to provide a safe, fair and fun environment for all participants. Work with Sun City, Huntley Senior Citizens, McHenry County Senior Services, Heritage Woods, Grafton Township and other transportation providers to ensure that schedules for transportation to/from HPD programs and events provide high accessibility to the non-driving senior population.
Maintenance & Planning Maintenance of parks and facilities is an extremely high priority for most park and recreation agencies as they search for ways to stretch the viable functional lifecycle of products and reduce the time and effort needed for ongoing maintenance. Utilizing materials and products that have extended life under extreme wear and tear allows agencies to extend replacement schedules. Other products and materials can be utilized that require less on-going maintenance, thus reducing the effort needed to maintain them and allow time to be appropriated to other needed endeavors. The maintenance of HPD parks and facilities is very good, but additional operational funding, more staff, better equipment and better maintenance facilities are all important in order to truly improve the condition of the parks and facilities. Playgrounds, site furnishings and other amenities are replaced as needed, with some equipment and amenities on a cyclical schedule for replacement. Continuing to address park and facility accessibility through compliance with the guidelines established through the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is another area that the District is beginning to address through the development on an ADA Accessibility Audit to identify needed improvements. Maintaining and enhancing existing parks and facilities is a key to the future effectiveness of the Huntley Park District.
Develop a detailed Repair and Replacement Plan that details an all-inclusive list of amenities, materials or equipment in each park and facility, when it was originally purchased/constructed, when replacement should take place based on standard lifecycle knowledge, likely budgetary needs and ongoing history as replacements and repairs take place. This R&R plan can include such things as playgrounds, mowing equipment, carpeting, copiers, computers, HVAC equipment, backstops, etc. Provide additional trained horticultural and plant maintenance staff to promote efforts toward more efficient, natural and context sensitive parks and open space that can reduce maintenance requirements within the parks.
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Adopt and utilize Illinois Department of Natural Resources best management practices and other appropriate environmental management techniques and control exotic and invasive species that inhibit ecological diversity. Develop a responsible internal work order system that is based on prioritized needs, simplicity, geographic proximity and flexibility to deal with emergency needs in a timely manner. Develop more prairie style landscape areas on park sites and utilize no-mow grass mixes in non-sports field areas that will reduce the areas to be mowed and, over time, require significantly less maintenance and care. Modify shrub pruning techniques to promote natural growth habits that are healthier for the plants and provide greater seasonal interest. Undertake a tree maintenance and replacement program to improve the aesthetics and health of existing trees and to create greater shade areas in the parks. Reduce the scale, slope and quantity of individual planting berms in the parks to reduce erosion, dessication of plants, mowing difficulty and overall maintenance requirements. Plan park sites to include greater accessibility to amenities, shade in common locations, plantings that are within the scope of current maintenance availability, natural landscapes where appropriate and amenities based on neighborhood demographics and needs. Explore options for new maintenance facility in the northwest quadrant of the District as community expansion occurs and future development of parks takes place. Consider collaborative use of new maintenance facilities with the Village of Huntley or Consolidated School District 158.
Volunteer Program Volunteers are very important to park and recreation agencies to assist with special events and maintenance, as advocates for parks in marketing and fundraising activities, and sometimes even as alternatives to salaried staff. Volunteer opportunities can be as varied as providing professional expertise to providing manual labor. The efforts of volunteers do require staff coordination, but the rewards for the community are many.
Increase the visibility and description of volunteer opportunities on the HPD website to give the volunteer program a greater presence and appeal. Consider adding a volunteer coordinator staff position, or as a volunteer position itself, as greater volunteer program development takes place.
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Encourage existing Sun City Garden Club or other local garden clubs to assist HPD in the care and maintenance of those parks where landscape gardens are a dominant feature, such as Parisek Park and Red Hawks Rest. Provide volunteers with training to match their areas of activity to ensure that customer service and volunteer activities meet the quality and philosophical goals of the District. Continue to utilize volunteers to assist with special events, selected recreation programs and general park maintenance activities, and to engage schools, organizations and church groups to assist in annual clean-up events. Promote teen and youth volunteer efforts by increasing recruiting and HPD awareness campaigns in schools and youth organizations. Engage residents and local business professionals with specific expertise to speak to employee groups on topics or procedures that are job-specific or assist instructors as guest speakers for specific programs related to their fields of expertise. Work closely with community organizations such as the Rotary Club, Lions Club, Jaycees and others to develop volunteer activities for their groups.
Health Healthy active living is one of the most popular and responsible trends nationwide in park and recreation planning. At the same time, childhood obesity, heart disease and many other diseases continue to be major health concerns that affect our quality of life. Providing healthy environments and activities for park and recreation patrons in which everyone can participate will continue to be of great importance.
Institute a policy that encourages a smoke-free environment on all HPD properties. Provide more concessionary items that offer low-fat, low-sodium alternatives to typical concessionary foods. Work to create programs in collaboartion with Centegra, Athletico or some other area healthcare providers that focus on health and wellness topics for children and adults. Encourage greater use of alternative modes of travel by adding bicycle racks at each park and facility and by working with area communities served by HPD to provide walkways and crosswalks that enhance safe pedestrian access to all parks and facilities. Make sure that all parks have adequate areas of shade, especially in areas designated for athletics spectator seating, playgrounds and seating areas.
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Stewardship With stewardship of the land falling more and more to park and recreation agencies, it becomes increasingly important that park districts offer environmental education opportunities. Educational offerings can help protect the natural areas within a park district by provide a better understanding of natural systems and can create a greater awareness of global ecological issues. It is also important that agencies undergo an internal transformation to be more environmentally friendly. The Huntley Park District has focused most of its past energies on active and passive recreation opportunities while the Kane County Forest Preserve District and the McHenry County Conservation District have focused on preservation and enhancement of open space. With limited non-agricultural land available within the HPD boundaries that is truly natural, this separation has served the area well. There are, however, opportunities for HPD to further develop its own stewardship initiatives.
Continue to establish pro-active pest management methods that include natural control methods and products, early detection of problems, preventive maintenance, and the selection of building materials and plant materials that are less susceptible to pest problems. Utilize chemical herbicides only as necessary to re-establish turfgrasses, and utilize natural materials such as corn gluten as a pre-emergent and vinegar to kill weeds in planting beds. Utilize energy-efficient light bulbs throughout District parks and facilities. Encourage the use of bio-degradable products and concessionaires and others utilizing HPD parks and facilities. containers by staff,
Utilize snow/ice melting products that minimize impacts on surrounding soils, water and plant materials. Develop additional interpretive signage in parks where natural areas are within or adjacent to the parks. Add tree and shrub markers to provide horticultural identification in appropriate locations throughout the parks. Enhance public awareness of the natural areas available within the District and their environmental significance. Utilize the expertise of area environmental consultants and agency staff from the Kane County Forest Preserve District and the McHenry County Conservation District to develop environmental programs, presentations and lectures. Plan for a future green nature center to act as the focus for environmental programming that is designed utilizing green building technologies where applicable and feasible.
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CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Classification of Parks
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CLASSIFICATION OF PARKS
The Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Guidelines developed by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) provide definitions for the various park classifications, but also recognize that, because each community is unique in terms of geographical, cultural and socioeconomic make-up, each community should develop its own standards for recreation, parks and open space. As a means of organizing the public open space facilities found in the Huntley Park District, the park areas are classified according to a hierarchy that provides for a comprehensive system of interrelated parks. All parks can be placed into specific categories or classifications. Some parks that meet neighborhood needs and have specialized amenities could be placed into more than one classification but are placed in the classification that meets the broadest definition. The park and open space classifications that are appropriate for the Huntley Park District do not necessarily meet the NRPA guidelines in a strict sense as far as size or amenities but are appropriate to the overall offerings of the District. The Huntley Park District classifications are as follows: Neighborhood Parks Community Parks Special Use Sites Open Lands
Definitions for the classification of parks and facilities are generally based upon the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) guidelines, but are refined to address the specific needs of the Huntley Park District and its residents. The criteria used to define each of the open space and park categories are described on the following pages. Parks, recreation and open space lands are also provided by other agencies and organizations that operate within the boundaries of the Huntley Park District. These entities provide public and private recreation amenities and services; some in collaboration with HPD. The other agencies/organizations included in this classification include: Village of Lake in the Hills Village of Algonquin Del Webbs Sun City Consolidated School District #158
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NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS
Neighborhood Parks Defined
The Neighborhood Park remains the basic unit of the park system and serves as the recreational and social focus of the neighborhood. Generally designed with a focus on informal active and passive recreation that serves neighborhood recreation needs, area is provided for recreational activities such as open play fields, court games, picnicking, and playground areas. Many neighborhood parks may also contain athletic fields that are used by community athletic organizations, thus serving the community as a whole. Neighborhood parks may also contain a specialty amenity or facility that serves the entire community, but has a limited user base.
Service Area
Neighborhood Parks serves an area within a to mile radius uninterrupted by major roads or other barriers.
Park Size
Five to 10 acres is considered optimal, though only five of the HPD Neighborhood Parks fall within this range. One to two acres are standard for every 1000 residents served.
HPD Neighborhood Parks
Eight parks in the HPD system are classified as Neighborhood Parks. These parks typically include a playground, picnic areas, athletic fields or courts, open space or other amenities. HPD neighborhood parks range in size from as small as the 1.1-acre Cottontail Park to the 16.5-acre Ol Timers Park. There are also two potential future neighborhood parks that are known park sites. Borhart Park Cottontail Park Kiley Park Ol Timers Park Parisek Park Ruth Family Park Tures Park Weiss Park Talamore Park Cider Grove Park 5.8 Acres 1.1 Acres 9.6 Acres 16.5 Acres 4.2 Acres 4.6 Acres 10.4 Acres 4.6 Acres
The location and service area of the neighborhood parks are shown on the adjacent map. 70
NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS
Neighborhood Park Service Area
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COMMUNITY PARKS
Community Parks Defined
Community Parks are diverse in nature, serving a broader purpose than the neighborhood or mini parks. While community parks may include neighborhood park amenities, and do act as neighborhood parks as well, the focus of a community park is on meeting community-based recreation, athletics and open space needs. These parks may contain significant athletic complexes, aquatic amenities, walking paths, picnic areas and various other active and passive amenities depending upon community needs and site suitability. In some cases, a park with only a single athletic field that provides a venue for community athletic organizations may fall into this category regardless of its small size. The Community Park may also be the venue of an activity or amenity that has broad community appeal but does not fit the Special Use designation.
Service Area
Community Parks usually serve multiple neighborhoods, and with special amenities serving the residents of the entire Park District. With neighborhood park amenities, the Community Park typically is designated to serve an area within a mile to over a 3 mile radius.
Park Size
25.0 acres or more are preferred, but special amenities of community interest or athletic fields that provide for the community as a whole may be on much smaller sites. The traditional Community Park contains five to eight acres for every 1000 residents served.
HPD Community Parks
Three parks in the HPD system are classified as Community Parks. Tomaso and Warrington Parks include multiple athletic fields as well as other unique amenities that service the entire community. Deicke Park is a destination park for the entire community that provides a variety of active and passive recreation opportunities. Deicke Park Tomaso Sports Park Warrington Park 24.5 Acres 38.0 Acres 62.0
The location and service area of the community parks are shown on the adjacent map. 72
COMMUNITY PARKS
Community Park Service Area
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SPECIAL USE SITES

Special Use Sites Defined
Special Use Sites cover a broad range of specialized park and recreation facilities, often with a single major use. Golf courses, historical sites, community center sites, theme parks, water parks and other special use facilities fall into this category. These parks may also include neighborhood or community park elements, but with amenities that have a regional appeal to visitors from outside the boundaries of the Park District.
Service Area
Special Use Sites serve the entire Park District, and often provide amenities that draw visitors from well beyond the boundaries of the District.
Park Size
The size of the amenity or facility site can vary significantly based on the needs of the amenity/facility.
HPD Special Use Sites
Three HPD sites/facilities are classified as Special Use Sites. Only one of the sites, Pinecrest Golf Club, is owned by the Huntley Park District. The other sites include the tennis facility at Huntley High School and the soccer fields on the Village of Huntley Public Works land. These sites/facilities offer amenities that appeal to the District residents and often to a greater regional population. Pinecrest Golf Club 130.0 Acres Huntley High School Tennis 1.4 Acres Public Works Soccer 3.3 Acres
The location of the Special Use Sites are shown on the adjacent map.
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SPECIAL USE SITES
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Special Use Sites/Facilities
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OPEN LANDS
Open Lands Defined
Open Land sites are properties designated as parks that have few or no built amenities, but provide natural areas or open space that can be utilized for passive recreation. These parks may have a trail, picnic tables and benches, but are dominated by open lawns for informal play. While many park and recreation agencies may categorize stormwater management sites as special use, they may also be categorized as Open Lands.
Service Area
Open Lands are undefined as they do not serve a population but rather a resource. Open Lands generally serve the entire Park District, though some sites can be very neighborhood oriented.
Park Size
Open Lands can be of any size, though smaller sites do not provide the open space intent of larger sites. In the case of natural areas, it is important to include enough land to protect the resource in an adequate manner.
HPD Open Land Sites
Only one HPD truly falls into this category and that is Red Hawks Rest. An open space area is also located in the Wing Pointe neighborhood that will not be developed due to location and access and therefore also falls into this classification. Other parks, like Deicke and Parisek, include land areas that are wooded, gardens or wetlands, but are more acurately categorized in some other classification of park. Still other parks, like Cottontail and Kiley, border on natural wetland areas but are developed with significant active recreation. Red Hawks Rest Wing Pointe South 1.0 Acres 1.0 Acres
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OPEN LANDS
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Open Lands
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LAKE IN THE HILLS & ALGONQUIN

Dual Service Areas
The Huntley Park District encompasses portions of both the Village of Lake in the Hills and the Village of Algonquin. Each of these municipal bodies have a park and recreation department that provides parks, programs and services to their residents, As such, those areas within HPD are served by both the HPD and the municipal department.
Lake in the Hills Parks & Recreation Department
Lake in the Hills has built a series of parks within the boundaries of the Huntley Park District in order to provide parks and recreation to their residents. Sunset Park is a large community park with ten ball fields, seven soccer fields, three football fields and a variety of other active recreation fields and amenities, including a playground, skate park and a splash pad. Leroy Guy Park is a Neighborhood Park that includes a variety of athletic fields and courts along with a playground. The other eight parks all fall into the Mini-Park classification which the Huntley Park District does not have. These parks are all small parks that provide playgrounds in residential neighborhoods. Sunset Park Leroy Guy Park Bark Park Natures View Park Celebration Park Avalon Park Normandy Park Edward Hines Park Cattail Park Rolling Hills Park Lynn Dillow Park
Village of Algonquin Events & Recreation Division
Algonquin has two parks within the boundaries of the Huntley Park District. Kelliher Park is adjacent to the School District 58 Square Barn Campus and includes a variety of athletic fields, courts and a playground area. James B. Wood Park is only partially developed with a playground and a trail system that loops around a detention area. Both parks fall within the Community Park classification. Kelliher Park James B. Wood Park
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Lake in the Hills and Algonquin Park Service Areas
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DEL WEBBS SUN CITY

Private Community Recreation
Sun City is a 55+ adult community that began construction in 1999 and currently is near its buildout of approximately 5500 homes. Located entirely within the boundaries of the Huntley Park District, the community was designed to provide residents with their own private recreation facilities and amenities that are not open to general nonresident use. Prairie Lodge is a large, 94,000 sq. ft. recreation center that includes a variety of indoor use areas and features, including a restaurant, dance/aerobics studio, billiards room, library, arts and crafts rooms, ballroom, fitness center and an elevated track overlooking an indoor aquatics center. Outdoor amenities include bocce courts, scenic ponds, shelters, a childrens playground, an outdoor pool and the Whisper Creek Golf Course. Meadow View Lodge is a smaller, 20,000 sq. ft. facility that includes a fitness center, outdoor pool, aerobics/dance studios, meeting rooms and various other amenities. The eight-court Tall Oaks Tennis Club includes a Championship Court with terraced seating. Other community amenities include the Mill Grove Woodworking Shop and Model Train Center, ball field, horseshoes, Wildflower Park, Wildflower Lake with a fishing pier, numerous other small parks and open space areas, and miles of trails.
* Photos provided by 55places.com
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DEL WEBBS SUN CITY
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Sun City Recreation Service Areas
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CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL DISTRICT 158

School Campus Recreation
As the region grew through the 1990s and 2000s, CSD #158 developed three sites in campus-style settings with multiple schools and recreation amenities. Most of the recreation amenities are not promoted for general community use, though the Huntley Park District and the Villages of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin do utilize some available courts and fields for recreation programs and sports leagues. The Harmony Road Campus includes Huntley High School and Leggee Elementary School. Leggee has a playground and various outside activities available, while the High School has the usual athletic fields and courts utilized for school sports programs. The athletic venues include two baseball fields, three softball fields, an eight-lane track with field activities, three football fields, and four+ soccer/multi-use fields. The eight tennis courts are also utilized by HPD for open tennis and programs. The Reed Road Campus includes Chesak Elementary School, Martin Elementary School and Marlow Middle School. Playgrounds, sports courts, baseball, softball, soccer/football/multi-use fields, and a track and field facility are available on the campus, with the ball fields utilized by HPD and Lake in the Hills for athletic programs. The Square Barn Campus includes Conley Elementary School, Mackeben Elementary School, and Heineman Middle School. Playgrounds, sports courts, baseball, softball, soccer/football/multi-use fields and a track and field facility are available on the campus, with the ball fields utilized by HPD and Algonquin for athletic programs.
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CSD 158 Recreation Service Areas
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SERVICE AREA PLAN

The map on the following page illustrates the service areas for Neighborhood and Community parks along with the locations of Special Use Sites and Open Lands found within the Huntley Park District. Service areas are generally consistent with the guidelines established by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). The Special Use Sites do not have defined service areas as they are considered to offer amenities and services that appeal to the entire resident population of the District. The Open Lands do not have defined services areas. In some cases, the actual service area of any park may be larger if the park includes amenities of regional appeal. Weiss Park is an example of this, where the skate park facility draws users from the entire community. Smaller service areas are also possible where major roadways act as barriers to park access. For illustration purposes, these roadway barriers are not shown. The service areas identified are as follows: Neighborhood Parks -Mile Radius Future Neighborhood Parks -Mile Radius Community Parks Up to 3-Mile Radius Special Use Sites Open Lands Lake in the Hills Parks Algonquin Parks Sun City Park Areas Sun City Special Use Sites CSD 158 Schools
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With the service area radii for each park type superimposed, it is evident that the Huntley Park District provides generally good park and recreation access to its residents with Lake in the Hills and Algonquin filling in service gaps within their community boundaries. Del Webbs Sun City parks/facilities and CSD 158 Schools are also identified though most of the service areas of their recreation lands overlap HPD parks and facilities. Rural areas within the District are not served by parks fitting the Neighborhood Park classification, but as the area continues to grow, new parks will be developed to better meet the needs of those residents. 84
RECREATION SERVICE AREA PLAN
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Recreation Service Area Plan
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CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Comparative Assessment
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COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT
The comparative assessment is a benchmarking tool that provides an understanding of how the Huntley Park District compares to other area park & recreation agencies in providing park & recreation amenities and facilities for its residents. With the area still likely to sustain additional population growth and land acquisition a priority, this type of comparison is a good current snapshot of agency offerings that should be taken into consideration when developing new parks or redeveloping existing parks. A comparative assessment is developed as a localized regional assessment that offers a more accurate analysis of needs and potential HPD deficiencies as compared to an assessment that considers national or state averages. The comparison includes park districts and municipal departments that are in regional proximity to the Huntley Park District and mostly still able to expand in area and population. Park & recreation agencies that are in growth areas are the focus for comparison as their level of service offerings are subject to ongoing changes in population or amenities as is the Huntley Park District. The 17 districts selected for comparison include:
Village of Algonquin Bartlett Park District Belvidere Park District Cary Park District Crystal Lake Park District DeKalb Park District
Dundee Township Park District Village of Lake in the Hills Village of Lake Zurich City of McHenry Rolling Meadows Park District Roselle Park District
Streamwood Park District St. Charles Park District Sycamore Park District Wauconda Park District City of Woodstock
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While several other park & recreation agencies were considered for the comparison, most were not included due to their population numbers being too low or too high, and some because their amenity offering was not readily available information. While some of the adjacent or nearby districts are relatively small or somewhat large when compared to HPD, their inclusion is still valid when comparing amenity offerings based on population ratios. This approach is consistent with National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Statewide Outdoor Recreation Partnership Plan (SORPP) recommendations. This comparative assessment includes the quantification of recreation amenities that are traditionally found in park & recreation agencies and common to most of those agencies included in the analysis. It also includes a few specialty amenities that are often found in park agencies in the region. The population of each park agency and the number of total acres of park lands are key components of the assessment in being able to provide a viable analysis based on comparable elements. When preparing an assessment comparing the offerings of park & recreation agencies, it is important to recognize that side-by-side comparisons of the quantity of any amenity is not a comparison that is viable or even appropriate unless the population numbers within agencies boundaries are almost identical. Clearly a community of 10,000 people is likely to have less soccer fields than a community of 50,000; a difference that translates to any amenity. Therefore, it is important to compare the Huntley Park District to other agencies based on the ratio of an amenity to the population. As such, the two columns in the Comparative Assessment chart that are of key importance are the COMPARISON columns where the population served by any single amenity is compared. For example, the Huntley Park District provides one ball field for every 2,105 residents living within its boundaries, while the other 17 agencies average one ball field for every 1,947 residents. For this analysis, the population, acreage and amenities are totaled for the 17 districts and then divided by 17 to get an average for each comparison element. The population average (31,500) is then divided by each amenity average to provide the ratio of each amenity that is compared with the Huntley Park District. The comparative assessment does assume some measure of inconsistency given that park agencies often have various types of a single amenity that are simply identified on their websites and promotional materials without differentiating the type. For example, the reporting of a basketball facility could include a full court, a half court or even a three-way court often found at parks adjacent to elementary schools. Similarly, soccer fields come in a variety of sizes and are simply totaled based on published numbers. Unfortunately, there is no real consistency in the reporting, with some park agencies counting all of their available amenities regardless of their size or use, while others identify only those used for organized sports. Also, some agencies will count a single field as both a soccer and football field based on its duel use even though it is physically only one field. In all cases, unless specific alternative documentation was readily available, the individual park agencys websites, quarterly program brochures or comprehensive plans were used to garner the number of amenities shown in the comparison chart. Some verification utilizing aerial photography was initiated where appropriate.
COMPARISON OVERVIEW
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Because the Huntley Park District encompasses portions of two municipalities that have their own departments providing parks and recreation services, certain comparisons in this assessment correctly present the fact that HPD is average in its amenity offerings; though inclusion of the amenities within the boundaries of HPD that are provided by Lake in the Hills and Algonquin raise the overall available comparisons quite high. While these amenities are only for use by residents of LITH and Algonquin, they are located within the District, and do serve the residents of those communities who live within District boundaries Within HPD boundaries, the Village of Lake in the Hills, at its Sunset Hills Park, Leroy Guy Park, Bark Park and eight mini-parks, owns and operates 13 ball fields, 15-18 soccer/football fields (depending on layout), 4 tennis courts, 2 basketball courts, 11 playgrounds, 2 sand volleyball courts, 7 shelters/gazebos, a skate park, and a variety of other amenities. The Village of Algonquin has two park sites Kelliher Park and James B. Wood Park - within the boundaries of HPD. Amenities at these parks include 2 ball fields, 2 soccer/football fields, 3 tennis courts, 3 basketball courts, 2 playgrounds, 1 shelter, and a variety of other amenities. The comparisons described herein are based solely on the amenities offered by the Huntley Park District, and do not include those amenities provided by LITH or Algonquin except as shown within the individual amenity discussions.
DUAL RECREATION SERVICE AREAS
HPD Boundary Lake in the Hills Algonquin
POPULATION
In most of this region there was measurable, and in some cases significant, growth during the 2000s. Because of this growth, the 2000 U.S. Census information is out of date and the 2010 Census data has not yet been released to provide current data. All of the population numbers are based on estimates as provided by each agency. The 17 park & recreation agencies included in this comparison range in population from the approximately 12,000 in the Wauconda Park District to 65,000 in the Crystal Lake Park District. The population number used for the Huntley Park District is 40,000; an estimate based on the number of households and an assumed average number of residents per household. Of those agencies included in the comparison, Bartlett and DeKalb have population numbers most similar to Huntley with approximately 41,000 and 43,000 residents respectively. As discussed above, the Huntley Park District overlaps parts of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin, so the populations shown for all three include the redundancies consistent with those overlaps in service areas.
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ACRES OF PARK LAND
NRPA has long utilized 10 acres per 1000 population as a standard recommendation for the amount of land that a park & recreation agency should provide. Of course this standard is one that, again, varies based on local needs and assessment. The total acres of land used for this comparison are based on figures published by each agency on their websites, in their program catalogs or as reported to IPRA/IAPD. Where possible, only land owned by the agency is included in the comparison. In some cases verification of owned vs. leased or managed land area is not available. The acreage in the comparison ranges from only 88 acres in the Wauconda Park District to 1533 acres in the St. Charles Park District. The following list illustrates the acreage per 1000 residents for HPD and each of the comparison agencies.
Park & Recreation Agency Acres per 1000 Residents
Cary Park District St. Charles Park District Sycamore Park District City of McHenry Village of Lake in the Hills City of Woodstock Crystal Lake Park District Average Village of Algonquin Dundee Township Park District Village of Lake Zurich Streamwood Park District Huntley Park District DeKalb Park District Bartlett Park District Belvidere Park District Roselle Park District Rolling Meadows Park District Wauconda Park District
45.4 Acres 31.9 Acres 22.9 Acres 22.6 Acres 22.6 Acres 22.0 Acres 21.4 Acres 17.2 Acres 17.6 Acres 13.5 Acres 11.0 Acres 9.8 Acres 9.5 Acres 9.3 Acres 9.3 Acres 8.3 Acres 8.2 Acres 7.9 Acres 7.3 Acres
The average of the 17 comparative districts exceeds the NRPA standard in a relatively significant manner with 17.2 acres per 1000 residents. This is due in part to visionary planning and development, along with significant capital revenues during the 2000s, which combined to allow greater availability of open space for parks and recreation. Another variable is that some park & recreation agencies, such as the Cary Park District, are responsible for a significant portion of the stormwater management areas within their boundaries. The Cary Park District has placed soccer goals in many of the detention basins as a way to utilize these sites for active recreation when they are not flooded. But in many agencies, these stormwater management areas are devoid of any true recreation purpose yet are included in their acreage calculations.
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The Huntley Park District currently provides 9.5 acres per 1000 residents based on 380 owned acres of land and 40,000 residents. Inclusion of the soccer fields at the Huntley Public Works site, the tennis courts at Huntley High School, the Village Green and the neighborhood park sites that are planned for the future, but not yet deeded to HPD, total enough to barely pass the 10 acre/1000 NRPA threshold. HPD is currently exploring available land for acquisition and future recreation development that will allow the District to surpass the NRPA guideline before additional community growth is recognized.
BALL FIELDS
The number of baseball and softball fields and the type of fields varies significantly from one agency to another. Ball fields for neighborhood pick-up games may not have all the amenities of competition fields but still meet resident needs. Some park & recreation agencies include all ball fields in their official count while others include only fields used for competition.
Park & Recreation Agency # Ball Fields Population Per Field
Sycamore Park District Wauconda Park District Huntley Park District (within boundary) City of Woodstock City of McHenry Roselle Park District DeKalb Park District St. Charles Park District Village of Lake in the Hills Average Rolling Meadows Park District Village of Lake Zurich Huntley Park District (provided by HPD) Crystal Lake Park District Streamwood Park District Bartlett Park District Village of Algonquin Dundee Township Park District Cary Park District Belvidere Park District
23 10 33 20 21 13 24 27 15 16.2 10 10 19 28 15 17 12 19 5 6
609 1,200 1,212 1,250 1,333 1,462 1,729 1,778 1,933 1,947 2,000 2,100 2,105 2,321 2,400 2,412 2,500 2,789 3,800 5,333
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Ten of the 17 comparison agencies provide a greater ratio of ball fields to population than HPD. With 19 ball fields, HPD provides one ball field for every 2,105 residents of the District. While the athletic organizations that utilize HPD athletic fields all want additional quality fields at their disposal, 95% of the Community Survey respondents who are familiar with athletic field use feel that the availability of athletic fields is at least average with 75% good to excellent. As presented previously, Lake in the Hills and Algonquin also have ball fields within the boundaries of the Huntley Park District with 13 fields and two fields respectively. The proposed management of the ball fields at the two middle schools will also add to the number that HPD provides to the community and will move HPD higher on the comparison by lowering the ratio of fields per population.
The Huntley Park District provides 26 marked soccer and football fields to serve its residents, a ratio of one soccer/football field for every 1,538 residents of the District. Only four agencies Cary, Lake in the Hills, St. Charles and Sycamore - provide a better ratio of soccer/football fields for their residents. Some HPD parks also have open space that can be utilized for neighborhood pick-up games that are not marked fields and are not included in the count. Both Lake in the Hills and Algonquin have soccer/football fields within the boundary of HPD. And as noted previously, some agencies utilize stormwater detention basins as neighborhood soccer fields and include those fields in their counts.
Park & Recreation Agency # Soccer Fields Population Per Field
SOCCER/FOOTBALL FIELDS
Huntley Park District (within boundary) Sycamore Park District Cary Park District St. Charles Park District Village of Lake in the Hills Huntley Park District (provided by HPD) City of McHenry City of Woodstock Village of Lake Zurich Bartlett Park District Average Wauconda Park District Rolling Meadows Park District Crystal Lake Park District Village of Algonquin DeKalb Park District Streamwood Park District Dundee Township Park District Belvidere Park District Roselle Park District
43 15 17 36 19 26 14 12 10 18 13.3 5 8 20 9 12 9 12 7 3
930 933 1,118 1,333 1,526 1,538 2,000 2,083 2,100 2,278 2,369 2,400 2,500 3,250 3,333 3,583 4,000 4,417 4,571 6,333 95
The importance of tennis is evidenced from one park agency to another by the extreme differences in ratio of courts to population. The DeKalb Park District provides four tennis courts total; one tennis court for every 10,750 residents. Rolling Meadows, where tennis is apparently of more importance to its residents, provides 15 courts; one court for every 1,333 residents. HPD is just below the average of the 17 comparison agencies, providing one court for every 5,000 residents while the average is one for every 4,354. Lake in the Hills has four tennis courts within HPD boundaries, while Algonquin has one, with expansion area for an additional court. The Huntley Park District tennis court offering consists of the eight lighted courts located at Huntley High School. While the program guide and facility matrix clearly identify that these courts are available for use through HPD, some residents are not aware of this availability. The location of the high school and the location of the courts behind the school building contribute to tennis being an out-of-site, out-of-mind amenity. As over 9.8% of the respondents to the Community Survey identified tennis as an interest over the next five years, a number that is higher than seen in many agencies, it may be important to add tennis courts in appropriate locations elsewhere in the District.
Park & Recreation Agency # Tennis Courts Population Per Court
TENNIS COURTS
Rolling Meadows Park District Wauconda Park District City of Woodstock Crystal Lake Park District Sycamore Park District St. Charles Park District Huntley Park District (within boundary) Village of Lake Zurich Average City of McHenry Huntley Park District (provided by HPD) Village of Algonquin Dundee Township Park District Village of Lake in the Hills Streamwood Park District Roselle Park District Belvidere Park District Bartlett Park District Cary Park District DeKalb Park District
15 5 9 19 4 14 13 5 7.2 6 8 6 10 5 6 3 5 5 2 4
1,333 2,400 2,778 3,421 3,500 3,429 3,077 4,200 4,354 4,667 5,000 5,000 5,300 5,800 6,000 6,333 6,400 8,200 9,500 10,750
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Basketball continues to be a staple amenity in most park & recreation agencies as something that can be utilized by individuals as well as groups for individual practice, pick-up games and for organized team competition. The Huntley Park District only has seven basketball courts serving the community, a ratio of one for every 5,714 residents. Only three of the 17 park districts in the comparison Cary, Crystal Lake and DeKalb provide a lower ratio of basketball courts than the Huntley Park District. Lake in the Hills and Algonquin each has two basketball courts within HPD boundaries. With 15% of the Community Survey respondents identifying basketball as an interest, court locations offered throughout the District and inclusion of the LITH/Algonquin courts in the evaluation, HPD residents are appropriately served by the current number of basketball courts. Additional courts in Warrington and Tomaso Parks could be considered for the future as well as in new parks as they are planned and developed.
Park & Recreation Agency # Basketball Courts Population Per Court
BASKETBALL COURTS
Village of Algonquin St. Charles Park District Dundee Township Park District City of Woodstock Bartlett Park District City of McHenry Wauconda Park District Sycamore Park District Average Huntley Park District (within boundary) Streamwood Park District Rolling Meadows Park District Village of Lake in the Hills Roselle Park District Village of Lake Zurich Belvidere Park District Huntley Park District (provided by HPD) Crystal Lake Park District Cary Park District DeKalb Park District
15 20 20 9 15 10 4 4 8.7 11 9 5 7 4 4 6 7 11 2 3
2,000 2,400 2,650 2,778 2,733 2,800 3,000 3,500 3,618 3,636 4,000 4,000 4,143 4,750 5,250 5,333 5,714 5,909 9,500 14,333
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Playgrounds are a very important part of any park and recreation agency providing many residents with their first park experiences as children. With 12 playgrounds, the Huntley Park District provides one playground for every 3,333 residents of the District, falling far short of the one per 1,521 average of the 17 comparative agencies. The interesting anomaly in this comparison is that the only parks without a playground are Red Hawks Rest and Pinecrest Golf Club - two places where a playground shouldnt be located and Tomaso Sports Park, where it simply hasnt yet been constructed. Furthermore, Warrington and Deicke Parks have two playgrounds each. Lake in the Hills and Algonquin have playgrounds in their community, neighborhood and mini parks, with a total of 12 additional playgrounds within the boundaries of HPD. By including all existing playgrounds, plus recommended new playgrounds in Tomaso and Warrington, the Districts ratio is much closer to the average.
Park & Recreation Agency # Playgrounds Population Per .
PLAYGROUNDS
Cary Park District Wauconda Park District Village of Lake Zurich Streamwood Park District Bartlett Park District Sycamore Park District Village of Algonquin St. Charles Park District City of Woodstock City of McHenry Average Roselle Park District Village of Lake in the Hills Huntley Park District (within boundary) Dundee Township Park District DeKalb Park District Rolling Meadows Park District Belvidere Park District Crystal Lake Park District Huntley Park District (provided by HPD)
23 14 23 38 31 10 21 33 17 19 20.7 12 18 24 20 20 9 12 24 12
826 857 913 947 1,323 1,400 1,429 1,455 1,471 1,474 1,521 1,583 1,611 1,667 1,893 2,150 2,222 2,667 2,708 3,333
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SAND VOLLEYBALL
Sand volleyball has increased in popularity in recent years in large part to the success of the US Olympic Volleyball team. Many park & recreation agencies offer sand volleyball either in direct relationship to their aquatic facilities or as stand-alone amenities in their parks. Six of the 17 comparative agencies do not provide sand volleyball courts. When considering all agencies, HPD is somewhat better than the average. And when considering all of the volleyball courts within HPD boundaries, residents of the District are second only to Lake Zurich in courts available. With nearly 10% of the Community Survey respondents identifying volleyball as an interest, HPD should continue to look for opportunities to include sand volleyball in new parks as they are developed.
Park & Recreation Agency # Volleyball Courts Population Per Court
Village of Lake Zurich Huntley Park District (within boundary) Streamwood Park District Village of Lake in the Hills Wauconda Park District St. Charles Park District City of McHenry Average (of those providing volleyball) Roselle Park District Belvidere Park District Huntley Park District Average Dundee Township Park District Crystal Lake Park District Rolling Meadows Park District Village of Algonquin Bartlett Park District Cary Park District DeKalb Park District Sycamore Park District City of Woodstock
6 9 8 6 2 7 4 4.3 2 3 7 2.8 4 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
3,500 4,444 4,500 4,833 6,000 6,857 7,000 7,723 9,500 10,667 10,000 11,394 13,250 16,250 20,000 0 0 0 0 0 0
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The Huntley Park Districts Stingray Bay Family Aquatic Center provides a variety of swimming, diving, and play amenities for residents and visitors. Four of the comparative agencies Crystal Lake, Lake in the Hills, Lake Zurich and Wauconda do not have aquatic facilities while the Dundee Township Park District has three facilities. HPDs aquatic facility serves the entire 40,000 population with only DeKalb and Bartlett, HPDs most similar population comparative agencies, serving higher populations. Rolling Meadows has the best ratio with two facilities serving their 20,000 population. Those residents living in Algonquin who are also within the boundaries of HPD have use of the aquatics facilities in both. Also within the boundaries of HPD, Centegra Fitness has both indoor and outdoor pools, and the Del Webb Sun City community has their own pool. Lake in the Hills does not have an aquatics facility. Expansion of the existing Stingray Bay will add more amenities and offer greater appeal but will not improve the population ratio. Respondents to the Community Survey rated swimming and diving the fourth highest interest with 26%, and over 43% expressed support for an indoor aquatics facility. Golf course offerings are unique in that the quality of the course determines whether it will draw users from outside the immediate area in addition to the residents who might have annual memberships and participate in golf programs. A quality facility in a small park & recreation agency can successfully compete with any other course and make development and operations a viable amenity for an agency. Only six of the 17 comparative agencies have their own golf facilities. Dundee Township has two separate 18-hole courses while DeKalb has an 18-hole course and a separate 9-hole executive course. Cary and Sycamore have 18-hole facilities while St. Charles and Bartlett offer 9-hole executive courses. Approximately 23% of Community Survey Respondents identified golf as a future interest placing it 8th amongst the 45 activities identified. HPDs Pinecrest Golf Club offers a 6,604yard Par 72 golfing experience that draws players from throughout the region. There are seven other courses within six miles of Pinecrest including the Whisper Creek Golf Club at Del Webbs Sun City.
POOLS/AQUATICS
GOLF COURSES
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With the growth of the fitness industry in the 1980s leading to several new private fitness center chains across the country, it wasnt long before park & recreation agencies began developing fitness centers as key facilities offered to their residents. Soon after, hospitals began developing high-end fitness centers that provide aquatics, spa services and related health and wellness programs. Ten of the 17 comparative agencies have fitness centers that offer membership-based facilities, with each agency, along with HPD, having one facility. Neither Algonquin nor Lake in the Hills has a fitness center. There are a variety of private fitness clubs in the area competing with HPDs Fitness Center including Centegra Health Bridge, Cardinal Fitness, and Lifetime Fitness.
FITNESS FACILITIES
SHELTERS/GAZEBOS
Another staple of community and neighborhood parks, picnic shelters and gazebos are used more as shaded areas from which to watch children playing or simply to sit and read than they are for picnics. Every agency in the comparative assessment provides shelters and gazebos including many that are available to rent for group outings. With 12 shelters/gazebos, HPD is right at the average of the comparative agencies providing one for every 3,333 residents.
Park & Recreation Agency # Shelters & Gazebos Population Per .
City of McHenry Village of Lake Zurich St. Charles Park District Belvidere Park District Village of Algonquin Sycamore Park District Huntley Park District (within boundary) Village of Lake in the Hills Average Huntley Park District (provided by HPD) Dundee Township Park District City of Woodstock Wauconda Park District Streamwood Park District Roselle Park District Bartlett Park District DeKalb Park District Crystal Lake Park District Cary Park District Rolling Meadows Park District
17 12 24 14 13 6 17 12 9.9 12 15 7 3 9 4 8 8 11 3 2
1,647 1,750 2,000 2,286 2,308 2,333 2,353 2,417 3,188 3,333 3,533 3,571 4,000 4,000 4,750 5,125 5,375 5,909 6,333 10,000
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SKATE FACILITIES
In the Chicagoland area, skate parks and in-line skating rinks continue to be optional amenities rather than required ones. Finding the right location and offering the right skate features contribute to the success of these amenities. The Huntley Park District provides one skate park, and Lake in the hills has one that is located within the HPD boundaries. Of the 17 park & recreation agencies in the comparison, six do not have a skate park or in-line facility. Of the 11 agencies with skate parks, the Streamwood Park District has four facilities, and Bartlett, DeKalb, Lake in the Hills, Rolling Meadows, and St. Charles each have two.
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Ice skating facilities come in many forms, including ponds, flooded tennis courts, flooded lawn depressions, and occasionally an actual ice rink. This diversity makes it very difficult to provide a meaningful comparison as some agencies offer two or three of these types. The Huntley Park District offers one location for ice skating, thereby being comparable to the other 17 agencies in the comparison. Six of the agencies offer no ice skating amenities. The average number of ice skating amenities in the 17 districts is 1.2, with Algonquin, McHenry, and St. Charles each offering three ice venues.
ICE SKATING
The comparative analysis shows that the Huntley Park District provides an amenity to population service ratio that generally meets or exceeds the averages of the comparative agencies for eight of the 12 amenities used for comparative purposes. Because of the overlap with the Villages of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin, those agencies also have many amenities in their parks that are within the boundaries of HPD. As a result, residents of HPD actually have greater averages than most of the other agencies, but with the caveat that those amenities located within the municipal boundaries of LITH and Algonquin are not open for use by HPD residents outside those municipalities. Certainly there are facilities and amenities provided in some area park districts that the Huntley Park District does not have. But at the same time HPD has some facilities, such as the Cosman Cultural Center, that are unique to HPD and do not have comparable offerings in other park & recreation agencies. Where these comparative findings are evaluated with the results of the Community Survey, opportunities and recommendations for new/expanded amenities are presented as appropriate.
CONCLUSIONS
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CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Park & Facility Evaluation
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PARK & FACILITY EVALUATION

The on-site evaluation of all HPD parks and facilities took place over a two month period in the summer of 2010. This evaluation provides the basis for formulating recommendations for improvements to each park and facility. As such, the documentation of conditions and amenities is a very important step in the comprehensive planning process.
INVENTORY & ASSESSMENT
Prior to initiation of the on-site evaluation, the background information of each property was researched through the HPD website, property maps and aerial photographs, and other HPD documentation. Maps and aerials of each park were printed and an inventory sheet prepared that was unique to each individual site. The inventory sheets listed facility name, address and acreage. A character section was used to record first impressions and the curb appeal of each park, questioning if this looks like somewhere I want to visit. Signage was evaluated for the condition, visibility and location of the park sign, and whether any off-site directional signage is seen in the neighborhood areas nearby (if appropriate to the park type). Landscaping and furnishings were evaluated along with the specific recreation amenities found on each individual park site. Checklist items for each amenity, landscape element and furnishing were listed under each heading. For example, the Basketball Court evaluation looks at play surface condition and material, fencing condition and material, background, and equipment condition (posts, backboards, nets, etc.). An average of 2-3 hours was spent on each park property and facility preparing a general inventory of amenities, assessing their condition, and noting potential improvements for each site. Existing conditions of site furnishings, recreation amenities, court surfaces and equipment, athletic fields, fencing, lawns, etc. were documented. The evaluation also included measuring some athletic fields to determine their use potential. Photographs were taken of each site, including general park views, specific amenity views, and detail photos of furnishings and problem areas. Maintenance of parks and facilities was also considered in the evaluation as maintenance can often be the cause of issues that require improvements. Maintenance recommendations are included as a part of the comprehensive plan where appropriate.
During the on-site inventory and analysis of HPD properties, a number of common opportunities for improving the properties were found that could be applied to parks and facilities throughout the District. There were also specific parks and facilities that should undergo a master planning process to make major modifications to the facilities and amenities on those properties. The District-wide recommendations for park improvements are presented on the following pages.
DISTRICT-WIDE RECOMMENDATIONS
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STANDARDIZATION OF SITE FURNISHINGS & AMENITIES
While each HPD property can have its own character or theme, there are many reasons for developing a standardized palette of certain furnishings and amenities. Standardization can provide a common look throughout the HPD system that presents an image that can be identified as a part of the Huntley Park District. Also, buying multiple units of a single item can often provide long-term cost savings to the District. The District has already been initiating this branding process to a degree with most park signs and furnishings showing this standardization. There are some existing HPD parks and facilities, however, which have multiple types of furnishings or materials, sometimes in close proximity to one another. This mixing of styles and materials can create a chaotic feeling and a definitive lack of aesthetics. Except for specific parks or locations (like the log cabin in Deicke Park), the following elements should be standardized for use on properties throughout the District and should all work together (style, materials and installation) to present a distinct image for the District that says quality.
Benches Picnic Tables Trash Receptacles Bicycle Racks Playground Edging Parking Lot Lighting Pedestrian Lighting Drinking Fountains
It is certainly appropriate for individual parks to project their own image and character rather than looking like every other park. But it is still important that the character of individual parks have some type of consistency. Within any given park, the design philosophy of using like materials and styles of elements to create an image for that park is important.
QUALITY MATERIALS
Providing quality is a philosophy that should be followed by any park agency. The Huntley Park District provides quality programming and has many quality parks and facilities. When selecting equipment, furnishings and amenities for the parks, it is important to consider aspects of the quality of those products and how they will meet the needs of the District. Are the materials and surfaces prone to vandalism? What is the life cycle of the product? Does the product require special maintenance in order to reach its maximum life cycle? Will the product hold up in this climate? Is the product safe? Does the product look like it is of high quality? These are just some of the questions that need to be asked and researched when making decisions about buying products for the parks and for determining their overall quality.
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While HPD strives to be environmentally conscious, utilizing recycled materials for site furnishings is still a quality question. While there may be some high quality recycled site furnishings available to meet the environmental philosophy of the District in this regard, many plastic benches and picnic tables currently being used in parks throughout the country do not exhibit a quality aesthetic, and they have a history of significant bowing within relatively short periods of time thus requiring earlier than normal replacement. HPD should research the availability of quality recycled site furnishings, but should not use any products that are not up to the quality standards the District should be instituting. HPD utilizes 55 gallon drums/barrels as trash cans at most of its parks and facilities. These barrels often detract from an otherwise very aesthetically pleasing setting and promote an image that does not spell quality. HPD should consider, over time, undergoing a systematic replacement of all barrels using a standardized receptacle throughout the system or developing an art-in-the-park program for painting the barrels with some theme for each location. Playground surfaces present an important component of quality in the parks. Poured/sprayed surfaces present the highest quality image while recycled rubberized or modified mulch products can also present a quality image. At the same time that the quality of the playground surfaces is being considered, ADA accessibility should also factor into the decision of which surfaces to use. The use of recycled shredded rubber surfaces or mulches creates an interesting conflict in meeting ADA and CPSP standards. While these mulches do meet ADA criteria, their accessibility rating is significantly higher when the material has been compacted. At the same time, this compaction reduces the ability to cushion falls. Only the poured/sprayed surfaces and the tiled surfaces fully meet both ADA and CPSP criteria. Cost considerations, of course, will be a primary consideration in determining what surface to use. The new Discovery Zone is the only playground in the HPD system that currently utilizes a poured surface. The District should always strive to use the best surfaces available given the budget for the project. Edging on playgrounds is not an element that is standard in HPD parks. The Discovery Zone, with concrete edges throughout, is the only playground in the HPD system that has any type of hard edging. This concrete edging can be flush-mounted to eliminate any access issues or trip hazards. Many play equipment companies also manufacture a plastic edging that many parks and recreation agencies use. This material is subject to cracking and sometimes creates a trip hazard around the perimeter as it is an abovegrade application only. Landscape timbers are also used by many agencies. These offer a better aesthetic quality than the plastic and can be flush to eliminate the trip hazard. The Huntley Park District should consider utilizing playground edging in certain locations, especially where the fiber mulch surface materials are adjacent to landscape mulch, sand or lawn areas where material migration is prevalent.
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Fencing is an element found in many parks for many different purposes. And it is an element that can significantly affect the character and quality of a park. HPD has a variety of fencing types and materials in use within its parks including split rail and chain link in different colors and forms. Those locations where wood fencing or decorative metal fencing is used project a character and quality that exceeds other parks. Galvanized chain link is a long-traditional standard for use on ball field backstops and fencing. Vinyl-coated chain link provides aesthetic and some safety attributes that make it preferable for use, with black and brown coated fencing the least obtrusive aesthetically, while also providing a backdrop that allows better visibility of baseballs, softballs and tennis balls. Replacement of existing galvanized fencing with vinyl-coated should be carried out as replacements come due. Quality can also extend to plant materials. Quality trees and shrubs not only produce a better aesthetic, but may also be healthier and have greater longevity. And the appropriate use of plant materials provides character to a park and can make improvements to the environment. Some nurseries will sell trees that may be designated as park grade. This often means that the trees do not have central leaders or have been over-pruned during their cultivation. Care should be given in utilizing these trees as future structural problems could manifest over time. With park and recreation agencies taking on a greater role as stewards of our natural resources, HPD should use plantings to enhance the environmental quality of the parks as well as enhancing the aesthetics of the parks.
Safety in HPD parks and facilities should always be a high priority, and the safety of its patrons is something that is evident in the everyday operations of the District. Safety concerns can be quite diverse and need addressing from a variety of perspectives. The few items that have been identified for improvement are diverse as well. Although the parks open and close with the phases of the sun, site lighting is still an important safety component in parks. The type and location of lighting is also an important safety consideration. Flood lighting in particular should not be angled outward as the glare caused by such lighting can, in itself, create unsafe conditions. HPD should review its site lighting annually and make sure that lighting is placed where it is needed. Site utilities often have access panels, manholes or other maintenance devices that were installed flush with the ground elevation but that have, over time, either risen above or sunk into the ground. Others have had covers installed that are hazards because they are raised or have a slotted grate that is dangerous to bicycles. These create trip hazards in lawns and paved areas that can be unsafe and be a liability. Ongoing maintenance should be completed to raise ground levels or add risers where they are needed and to replace any grates that are of unsafe design.
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
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Safety concerns at ball fields can exist that require attention to protect both the participants and the spectators. Fences in front of the dugouts and bleachers should all be high enough to protect those behind them as foul balls are a hazard to players and spectators. At parks where multiple ball fields are clustered, like Tomaso Sports Park, foul balls can cross to the spectator and dugout areas of the adjacent fields. While higher fencing will help with line drive type fouls, pop-ups can still be a problem. Some park agencies have installed an overhead mesh that covers those areas between the fields. This mesh also provides some level of shade and sun protection.
PARK DESIGN
All of the parks in the Huntley Park District have a variety of amenities and features that are of high quality and effectively create a great environment for users of the parks. The parks are much-used by the residents, and the community survey responses show a high level of satisfaction with the parks. There are, however, some design features that should be enhanced, simplified or even removed in order to reduce maintenance, create a better aesthetic, and create better access to amenities. Access to playgrounds and other amenities in some HPD parks is via a walkway that goes through the picnic shelter or gazebo. While this type of access may be considered a safety checkpoint, it can also be a problem if children or families going to a playground do not want to encroach on activities already taking place in the shelter. Alternative access is often still available from the main walkway, but requires crossing lawn or landscaped areas, an access that is apparent in the trampled condition of those lawns and planting beds. Consideration should be given to creating direct access to these amenities by adding paved paths from the main sidewalks into the amenity. Control points can be defined with landscaping and fencing to minimize direct access between non-compatible uses such as parking and playgrounds. Sand play areas are a part of almost every park in the HPD system. In a few instances, like Kiley Park and Ol Timers Park, the sand play areas are selfcontained and are separated from other activity areas. But in most cases, the sand play areas are directly adjacent to playgrounds, shelters, paths and planting beds where the migration of sand into/onto those areas creates excess maintenance requirements. Further, when the sand is on the walkways, there is an aesthetic issue, a potential safety issue and a perception that maintenance is lacking; even though maintenance may have been completed just minutes before. HPD should consider eliminating sand play from some of its parks especially those where material migration is a problem.
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Landscaped berms are a dominant feature in many HPD parks. Often used to buffer parking from the street or to separate park amenities/use areas, the berms can create a very nice aesthetic and functional feature. The landscape berms can also cause excess maintenance needs and create unsightly aesthetic and functional issues. The steep slopes of the berms are the biggest problem with erosion issues as mulch slides into the adjacent lawns or basketball courts. The resulting soil slump causes plantings to lose their footing and migrate downhill. Many plant materials have been displaced while others have become desiccated as water runs off the berms rather than soaking into the soil to feed the plants. Another problem is the smaller berm/landscape bed areas that are separated by small areas of lawn that require very detailed mowing. Consideration should be given to reducing the height or slopes of the berms, planting materials that will stabilize the slopes and consolidating the smaller planting berms/beds and creating flowing curved bedlines in order to make mowing easier.
As the Huntley Park District is preparing an ADA audit of its parks and facilities, it is anticipated that many improvements to accessibility will need to be considered. Many of the likely improvements will have to do with access routes to park amenities, athletic venues, and seating areas. HPD will need to consider these access guidelines as parks are redeveloped or improvements take place.
ADA GUIDELINES
PLAYGROUND DESIGN
There is a movement taking places that is geared toward combining play with nature. Prior to all the playground safety regulations being put into place, there were some designers who incorporated landscaping into the playground environment. The revitalized look into this design concept is called NatureGrounds. The idea is to integrate play equipment with the landscape to create a more balanced play and learning environment for children. Plant materials, including shade trees, are important components in the overall design of the playgrounds. HPD should consider designing to this program when playground replacements are needed and when new playgrounds are developed.
PARK & FACILITY ENHANCEMENTS
The following recommendations are based on opportunities for improvements on a Districtwide basis. It is recommended that these improvements be implemented over a three to ten year period to bring all Huntley Park District properties to the same standards in a relatively short period of time. It is important to first take the time to develop quality standardization of furnishings and materials before embarking on these improvements. Any recent upgrades to amenities may need to be revisited in 5-7 years to meet the new quality standards. While many of these are listed in the recommendations for individual parks, they should be considered system-wide.
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Park Amenities Replace picnic tables/benches and other site furnishings with those selected for branding of the District Add bicycle racks at all parks and facilities Trash receptacle replacements or art program Add paved aprons in front of all benches Add drinking fountains to parks near athletic fields/courts Utilize pump-style water faucets for maintenance only and add locks to eliminate use by park users
Landscape Improvements Shade trees in/around playgrounds Landscape areas within playgrounds Shade trees near spectator seating areas Edge planting beds and playgrounds to reduce material migration Low level landscape areas at park signs and other appropriate areas for seasonal interest/aesthetics Reduce berm slopes by top shaving or by extending widths of beds Consolidate smaller berm/landscape bed areas to simplify mowing Plant low-grow grasses or native materials in open passive areas to reduce mowing needs and add interest
ADA accessibility improvements Add paved base pads and access walks to athletic field bleachers and athletic court areas Add ADA picnic tables at all locations where there are/will be picnic tables Add paved aprons and access walks to benches, picnic tables and other use areas
Directional Signage Work with the Villages and IDOT to add directional street signage for more parks/facilities that cater to overall community interests Replace park signage not meeting current branding standards Add internal directional signage and additional historic/resource interpretive signage in parks where appropriate Consolidate signage where appropriate to eliminate confusion
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Athletic Fields/Courts Re-cut baseball/softball infields Add irrigation at heavily-used fields Replace fencing/backstops with black vinyl coated materials Initiate systematic improvements to all turfgrass areas Add concrete pads under team bench areas Add concrete pads under spectator seating areas with ADA walkways Add benches at athletic courts
NEW AMENITIES/REDEVELOPMENT MASTER PLANS
New amenities have been identified for possible addition to the Huntley Park District. Several parks are identified as needing more than simple playground replacement or walkway resurfacing. Two parks are identified as needing new master plans. Some possible pairings of park sites and new amenities are listed below.
New Master Plans o Cottontail Park o Ol Timers Park Tennis Court Site Options o Ol Timers Park o Warrington Park Splash Pad Site Options o Parisek Park o Ruth Family Park o Tures Park Native/Wildflower Meadow o Cottontail Park o Kiley Park o Ol Timers Park o Red Hawks Rest o Warrington Park Disc Golf o Warrington Park Concession/Toilet/Storage Building o Tomaso Sports Park o Warrington Park Add Playgrounds o Tomaso Sports Park o Warrington Park
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NEW FACILITIES
A variety of new facilities have been discussed during the visioning process that could be constructed on existing park sites or, more likely, on new park land as the District continues to grow. The results of the 2010 Community Survey show a wide ranging support for many of these facilities even in the current economy. As a result, it is recommended that viable locations of these facilities be considered as a land acquisition strategy is implemented. New facilities may include: With 43% of the survey respondents currently willing to support an indoor pool facility, this may be the highest priority future facility for the District as it seeks new sites for acquisition and development. While a variety of locations may be deemed viable, the ability to draw members from surrounding communities may direct location to a place where an existing market exists. With Algonquin having only an outdoor pool and Lake in the Hills having no aquatics facilities, locating a new indoor pool on the east side of the District will provide a ready market and allow the facility to be economically viable in a short period of time.
Indoor Swimming Pool
Field House/Indoor Sports Facility
This type facility will have a variety of options for placement within the District as the various sports organizations in the area will likely utilize the facility regardless of its location because of its need for year-round training and practice. It has been suggested that this facility could be built as an addition to the REC Center, occupying the parking lot east of the gymnasium area of the existing building. While this is a viable location, parking requirements will need to be considered as eliminating parking while adding a facility that draws more people could be a concern. Another alternative may be to include this facility as a part of a future new sports complex undertaken by the District. With 22% of survey respondents supporting this type facility, and wide support from stakeholders and other groups involved in the visioning process, an Indoor Sports Facility is a viable consideration for the future. An environmental center facility can be placed in any park. But when a site offers natural amenities that can be directly linked to the center and programs developed for the center, finding a location that can bring the natural and man-made elements together is the best scenario. This type site will also provide a great venue for outdoor wilderness activities. But with woodland areas at a premium in this farm country environment, HPD may need to look at other options for developing a nature center. Certainly there are wetland areas that could act as an outdoor laboratory for programs. Even parks like Cottontail and Red Hawks Rest border on scenic natural areas. Finding a similar park site not surrounded by residential development is one alternative for locating a nature center. The old quarry properties on the north side of the District could provide an interesting environment for a nature center. Another option is a collaborative effort with the McHenry County Conservation District or the Kane County Forest Preserve District, agencies that may be better able to provide appropriate lands for environmental education purposes. With approximately 28% of the survey respondents supporting this type facility, and numerous interests expressed in land preservation and outdoor adventure, a Nature Center will provide a good opportunity for the District to expand its programs and parks.
Nature/Environmental Center
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CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Park Assessment
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PARK EVALUATION CRITERIA

Each park has a variety of amenities and elements that were assessed during the detailed on-site inventory and assessment of the parks. In determining the overall quality of each park property, these factors have been rated based on their quality, quantity or ability to meet the needs of the community. As an example, if a park has a playground, ball field, soccer field, a variety of site furnishings, signage and landscape elements, each of those amenities/elements are evaluated and rated separately. The ratings range from excellent to poor and are based on a high standard of quality or perception. In order to maintain a common scale, a single evaluator prepared all of the park and facility assessments. There are common elements that were evaluated and considered for virtually every park or facility, including such things as the character of the park or facility, neighborhood access to the park, lawn/turf conditions and many other site features. Some of the amenities or elements are evaluated based on subjective criteria while others are objectively evaluated using quantitative and qualitative criteria. In some cases, only a single criterion is used in the evaluation while others require an evaluation of many elements. The criteria used for some of the commonly rated elements of the parks and facilities are described below.
Character is a measurement of the curb appeal of a park or facility, a first-impression on whether the site looks inviting and is aesthetically pleasing. Signage is reviewed for its visibility and location, condition of the park sign and, in some cases, whether off-site directional signage is provided when warranted. Access measures the functional ability to get to the site from surrounding neighborhoods. In most cases, Village sidewalks and crosswalks provide this accessibility. Landscaping ratings are based on the quality and quantity of plant materials, placement, seasonal interest, provision of shade, screening ability, and whether the scale of plantings is appropriate to the surroundings. Turf quality is evaluated for thickness, evenness, and consistency. This covers only the non-athletic field areas of the parks and facilities where lawns provide open space for active or passive recreation. Picnic areas are evaluated based on the condition and quality of the picnic tables, sun/shade options, accessibility of picnic areas, locations relative to other amenities, and quantity of picnic tables relative to the type and size of a park. Site Furnishings, such as benches, drinking fountains, trash receptacles, bike racks, and other similar elements are evaluated for the condition, quantity, and quantity of furnishings relative to the type and size of a park or facility. The use of consistent styles of furnishings in order to help brand the park or overall District is also considered.
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Playground ratings are based on a variety of components including the quality and condition of the equipment, the diversity of the play equipment, the type and quality of edging and surface materials, and the design/composition of the playground area. Tennis and basketball courts have similar criteria evaluated, including the type and condition of the surface, the structural quality of the surface, type and condition of fencing, equipment quality and condition, availability of seating and accessibility to the courts. The tennis court evaluation also looks at such things as net adjustability, player backdrop and lighting, when available. Ball fields also have numerous criteria in the rating evaluation including infield condition, infield erosion, turf condition, irrigation, fencing/backstop material and condition, team and spectator seating types and condition, accessibility and lighting. Soccer fields have similar criteria with goals replacing fencing/backstops in the evaluation.
The ratings developed during the inventory and assessment of each park and facility serve as the basis for many of the capital improvement recommendations presented in the Park Assessments and Facility Assessments. It is important to understand that a higher rating may be given an element based on things like diversity, overall accessibility or quality materials, yet still warrant immediate attention to correct deficient components. As such, the following key should be considered a general guideline, with the capital recommendations the basis for action. Excellent Very Good Good Fair Poor
RATING
DESCRIPTION Almost New Condition or Standards Exceeded Above Average Condition or Standards Met/Exceeded Average Condition with Most Standards Met Below Average with Attention Needed Soon Attention Required
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PRIORITIZATION OF RECOMMENDATIONS
The recommendations found associated with each of the Park Assessments have been prioritized to provide the basis of the Capital Improvements as well as maintenance intiatives. These recommendations are based on the inventory and assessment of each park and facility, findings from the visioning process, and on a general understanding of the funding opportunities that may be appropriate for future projects.
1 FIRST PRIORITY RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommendations identified as first priority should be initiated within the next two years. These priorities are deemed important because they represent current needs and initiatives as well as initiatives relative to safety.
2 SECOND PRIORITY RECOMMENDATIONS
The second priority recommendations should be implemented in a range of two to four years depending on conditions, trends, and funding opportunities.
3 THIRD PRIORITY RECOMMENDATIONS
Third priority recommendations present improvements that should be completed to expand the use of the park, or replacement of park amenities that are still viable, but need to be scheduled for replacement within this planning period.
4 FOURTH PRIORITY RECOMMENDATIONS
These recommendations look beyond the philosophy of a five-year plan to provide a listing of future needs that can be addressed as time and budget allow. These recommendations are typically more than five years from implementation unless funding opportunities make them viable sooner.
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BORHART FAMILY PARK

9661 Abbey Road 5.8-Acre Neighborhood Park Seating Area Basketball Playground Toilet Pavilion Sand Play Parking Park Sign
Ball Field
Soccer/ Play Field
N
Located in the Covington Lakes neighborhood north
of Reed Road and east of Rt. 47, Borhart Family Park is surrounded by single-family residential, with a stormwater retention basin across Abbey Road. The park was constructed in 2005 to provide a variety of active and passive recreation amenities for the new residential area. There is a network of public sidewalks to access the park, with bituminous and gravel pathways through the park providing access to some, but not all, of the amenities. The layout of the internal pathways needs to be revisited, as the defined playground access is only through the picnic shelter. There is also a dead-end path near the basketball court, and no defined access to the court, bike rack or toilets. A 21-car parking area is located on the east side of the park, with adequate overflow parking available on Abbey Road. The ball field is utilized for both organized games and neighborhood pick-up games and is flexible for either baseball or softball use.
Conditions Assessment
Curb Appeal Pedestrian Access Internal Access Parking Park Sign Site Furnishings Playground Sand Play Shelter Toilets Basketball Sitting Area Ball Field Soccer Field Athletic Turf Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance Excellent Excellent Fair Very Good Excellent Very Good Very Good Fair Very Good Fair Very Good Poor Very Good Good Good Fair Good Fair Good
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BORHART FAMILY PARK The small playground has a shade canopy and
offers a good mix of features for the 5-12 year old, with tot swings and a sand play area also provided. The sand area, playground surfacing, and planting mulch beds are not clearly defined, with each material spilling over into other areas and onto lawns and paved surfaces. The ball field/soccer field turf is uneven and has some weed growth. The basketball court has ponding in a couple of areas, with the adjacent mulched planting bed eroding onto the court. The picnic shelter gets significant use by neighborhood residents enjoying the playground, but is already showing rust on the steel posts. Site furnishings include a mix of brown metal/vinyl-coated picnic table and benches, trash barrels, an old-style bike rack, and a pump-style water hydrant. The small seating area at the west end needs significant improvement to both design and maintenance to make it a viable feature. The general lawn areas exhibit significant weed growth throughout the park. Landscaping is extensive around the perimeter and throughout the park. The steep slopes of the berms do cause erosion and encourage weed growth, with proximity of berms to each other and to active use areas causing many maintenance issues.
Recommendations 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 3
Fill/level athletic field turf areas Repair ball field infield Re-establish turfgrasses throughout park Utilize specialty paving in seating area Add planted islands within seating areas to reduce the scale of gravel surfaces Add landscaping at park sign Redesign/reshape berms & landscape areas to reduce slopes/erosion of beds Spade edge playground area and planting beds to contain mulch material Sand & repaint shelter posts Redesign/build pathways to provide appropriate access to all amenities Add paved aprons around benches Provide soccer goals that can be used for neighborhood games Sealcoat parking lot Rebuild/expand playground to include more 2-5 year old amenities 123
COTTONTAIL PARK
Bedford Drive & Bordeaux Drive 1.1-Acre Neighborhood Park
Park Sign Playground Sand Play
Shelter
Natural Area Picnic Kiosks
N
Cottontail Park is in the Southwind neighborhood
located north of Reed Road between Haligus Road and Lakewood Road. The park is surrounded by single-family residential on three sides, with a large natural wetland area to the south that creates the sense of a much larger park. Cottontail was built in 1998-99 and has had no major improvements or modifications since its construction. On-street parking is available, though the park is used mainly by neighborhood residents who come to enjoy the amenities and the great views into the open space wildlife habitat. There is a network of public sidewalks to access the park, with concrete paths through the park providing access to the playground area and shelter. The remainder of the park is open space, with some amenities accessible across lawn areas.
Curb Appeal Access Park Sign Site Furnishings Playground Sand Play Shelter Picnic Kiosks Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Natural Area Maintenance Excellent Excellent Good Good Fair Fair Good Fair Good Good Excellent Excellent Good
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COTTONTAIL PARK
of features for the 5-12 year old with swings provided for tots. The playground apparatus is at the end of its useful life and is in need of replacement. The playground mulch surfacing edges are not defined. A sand play area is clearly defined with landscape timbers, but sand still spills onto surrounding surfaces. The picnic shelter provides an excellent location to sit and enjoy the natural area and is enjoyed by many neighborhood residents. The shelter is original to the park and is showing signs of wear with roof replacement and painting of other surfaces needed. Site furnishings include a mix of wood/aluminum-framed picnic tables, fiberglass benches, trash barrels and a pump-style water lever that shows signs of being left on for extended periods. Two picnic table kiosks are located on the west side of the park. These kiosks are not ADA accessible and are in need of repair or replacement. The lawn areas exhibit some weed growth throughout the park. The landscaping includes numerous shade and evergreen trees, with shrub and perennial plantings at the sign and in pockets within the park. The size of some planting beds and extent of plantings creates a maintenance need that is relatively high for a park of this size and type. There are several bed areas that are barren and several plants that require pruning or replacement.
The playground area offers a good mix
Recommendations 1 Develop a new park master plan 1 Replace, expand and diversify 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 4 4
playground equipment to meet needs of the young neighborhood demographic Edge playground area and planting beds to contain mulch material Remove sand play area and expand/redesign seating area Replace shelter roof and repaint surfaces Remove picnic kiosks Replace picnic tables and benches with current District standards Repair/repaint park sign Re-establish channel and rip-rap bed at drainage structure Consolidate planting areas and select new materials that are less maintenance-intensive Add landscaping at park sign Add bicycle rack Add naturalizing plantings as transition to wetland area and surrounding drainage structure Add interpretive signs at natural area Consider ornamental gazebo on west end with access path from public sidewalk 125
DEICKE PARK
11419 South Route 47 24.5-Acre Community Park
Park Sign Deicke Building Log Cabin Playground Parking Shelter Shelter Volleyball Volleyball Pond Shelter REC Center Toilets Ball Field Parking Shelter Basketball Parking Discovery Zone
N
Deicke Park is the crown jewel of the Huntley
Very Good Fair Good Excellent Fair Fair Excellent Fair Very Good Good Very Good Very Good Poor Very Good Good Good Fair Fair Very Good Excellent Park District, with a variety of facilities and amenities that appeal to all ages and interests. Located on busy Rt.47 just southwest of the Village, the park is surrounded by open space and is home to festivals and events throughout the year. Facilities include the new Discovery Zone playground area, the Boy Scouts Log Cabin and the Deicke Recreation Center, which currently houses the Huntley Chamber of Commerce and the Districts Finance/HR Department. There are four parking areas serving various parts of the park with overflow event parking available in Warrington Park. The park is not easily accessible except via automobile, though planned improvements to Rt.47 include bicycle lanes and crosswalks that will provide better alternative access. Though somewhat nondescript from the highway, the entry is an impressive feature with its stone columns. A marquee sign provides passing drivers with information about activities and events.
Curb Appeal Access Parking Park Sign Wayfinding Site Furnishings Playground Sand Play Shelters Picnic Kiosks Toilets Basketball Sitting Area Ball Field Soccer Field Athletic Turf Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance 126
DEICKE PARK There are four picnic shelters in the park that offer a different experience of the park.
Two picnic kiosks are also available near the pond. The shaded playground adjacent to the log cabin offers a nice variety of features including a modern version of monkey bars and a small climbing wall. Landscaping includes a number of large shade and ornamental trees with planting beds in several areas of the park. Additional planting areas can benefit the aesthetics of the park. Lawn areas are generally good, though many weeds and barren areas do exist. Directional signage near the entry to the park is cluttered and needs to be a designed element. There are a variety of styles of site furnishings in the park, and standardization is needed to brand the historic nature of the park. Similarly, new historic lighting should be considered in the main use areas from the playground to the Discovery Zone. The ball field is generally in good condition as is the basketball court. The toilet facility on the south end is very good, while the outhouse facility behind the log cabin is architecturally interesting, but most visitors are unaware of its existance.
Recommendations . 1 Redesign and consolidate wayfinding signage 1 Redesign landscape at park sign/gates 1 Rebuild sand volleyball courts 1 Replace marquee sign on Rt.47 1 Remove dead trees and replace ornamental tree at ball 1 1 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 4
field Replace all picnic tables/benches to standardize the design and style Replace roof on Martines shelter near ball field Stabilize bank edges on pond Add ornamental landscaping to screen utility panels near Weltzien shelter Add plantings between parking and north playground area Add bicycle racks Replace picnic tables in picnic kiosks Add wayfinding and interpretive signage in wooded trail/playground area Replace galvanized basketball and ball field fencing with black vinyl coated Add historic-style lighting throughout the park to replace flood-lighting
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KILEY PARK
11745 Blue Bayous 9.6-Acre Neighborhood Park
Ball Field
Basketball Playground Gazebo Parking
Park Sign
Open Play
N
Park, located in the Wing Pointe neighborhood south of Dundee Road and east of Haligus Road, offers a variety of amenities and activities for neighborhood residents. The park is bordered by single and multi-family housing as well as a wetland detention area and open space. Constructed in 2002, the park includes a ball field that is used for baseball practices and for the Districts T-ball program. A 17-space parking lot serves the park, but even a single game or practice session can overflow the lot and cause the need for on-street parking. The close spacing of residential driveways limits spaces available and can cause conflicts. There is a good network of public sidewalks and a trail to access the park, with concrete paths into the park amenities. Only the ball field does not have an accessible path. It has been reported that soccer field users sometimes gain access to the field by cutting through residential properties between houses; though there is easy access via the community trail. 128
Kiley
Curb Appeal Access Parking Park Sign Site Furnishings Playground Sand Play Gazebo Toilets Basketball Ball Field Soccer Field Athletic Turf Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance Very Good Excellent Good Excellent Very Good Fair Good Very Good Fair Fair Good Good Very Good Fair Good Very Good Good
KILEY PARK The park has separate tot lot and 5-12 play areas that offer a fairly good mix of activities,
though the tot lot is very small considering the young family demographic in the neighborhood. The playground, at nine years old, is much used and definitely shows the wear of age. There is no shade in the playground area, and access to the tot lot is only through the gazebo or across lawn. This situation may be considered a safety feature but can also prevent access if the gazebo is in use. A sand play area is separate from the other playground activities, thus not causing the material migration found in other park sites. The metal-roofed gazebo adds a nice aesthetic in the park and offers a good place to sit and watch the children play. There are minor cracks in the concrete pad that will require future repair. Site furnishings include metal picnic tables matching the gazebo, trash barrels, and a bicycle rack correctly installed with access from both sides. All lawn areas exhibit some weed growth throughout the park with the athletic field turf being the best. The ball field is in need of work, as the fencing/backstop needs replacement and the infield area regraded and edged to eliminate the lip at the turf edge. The basketball court is in generally good condition, though its close proximity to the playground could be a user concern. The toilet area needs some upgrades to the screen walls and plantings. Site landscaping includes berms screening the parking and separating certain use areas. Several shrubs, especially adjacent to the parking lot, are in need of replacement. The tight meandering design of planting beds causes the need for extra maintenence care. Including shade trees at the ballfield and playground area and a more natural planting near the wetland, can provide a better landscape both functionally and aesthetically.
Recommendations . 1 Replace and add plantings in parking 1 Paint/repair toilet screen fence and 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 3 4
berm add shade trees adjacent Replace fencing mesh at ball field Recut edge and grade ball field infield Replace playground and expand tot lot area Add shade trees in/around playground area, basketball court and ball field Add access paths to all amenities that do not require gazebo pass-through Hold neighborhood meeting to discuss additional amenities and interests of residents Reshape planting bed edges for easier maintenance Repair gazebo base concrete Add naturalizing plantings as transition to wetland area, including elimination of lawns where athletics/field activities are not present
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OL TIMERS PARK
10700 Church Street 16.5-Acre Neighborhood Park
Shelter Park Sign
Volleyball Ball Field Soccer
Playground Parking
Maintenance Yard
N
Curb Appeal Access Parking Park Sign Site Furnishings Playground Sand Play Shelter Toilets Volleyball Ball Field Soccer Fields Athletic Turf Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance Fair Fair Fair Good Fair Fair Very Good Very Good Fair Fair Good Good Very Good Fair Good Good Good
Ol Timers Park is one of the older parks in the
District, dating back to 1984. The park is located just a few blocks north of the Village proper, and is bordered by mostly single and multi-family housing, with a construction firm on the south. The park has a ballfield used by Huntley Travel Baseball, and three soccer fields of which only the west field is being utilized due to poor conditions caused by flooding on the other field areas. The west field is used for both HPD Soccer and HPD Flag Football programs. The parking lot is sized to accommodate multi-game use and turnover if all the fields are able to be utilized again in the future. The parking lot has somewhat undefined edges and a dusty gravel surface that is in need of upgrade. The flagpole monument area is designed to create a circulation/drop-off area, but could be enhanced in size and landscape color for more interest and better scale. There is little public frontage from which views into the park are available. Public sidewalks in the residential areas surrounding most of the park provide access availability, but paths are only available from certain areas. There have been some incidents of private property being used to access the park from the north even though a path does provide direct access from Douglas Avenue.
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OL TIMERS PARK
for a new master plan to address drainage issues, review access into the park and determine other neighborhood recreational interests. The playground area includes areas for tots and 5-12 age groups, with a seperate sand play area that is well-defined. The tot lot area is very small for a park of this size, with all the play equipment near the end of its useful life and showing significant wear. There is fairly good shade in the playground area due to the size and age of surrounding trees. Playground design could be done to incorporate the trees for even greater shade if possible. The picnic shelter and pad are in very good condition considering their age, with a new set of matching picnic tables needed to promote District branding. Other site furnishings include one older bench, a pump-style water fountain and trash barrels. The athletic field turf is very good with limited weed growth, though the flood areas of the turf do have signifcant weeds as maintenance is very difficult in these areas. The non-athletic areas of lawn exhibit very limited weeds and clover. The ball field is in need of work, as the fencing/backstop needs to be replaced/upgraded, and the infield area regraded and edged. The volleyball court needs to have redefined edges and added sand base. The toilet area location should be better worked into the park activity areas. Pathways can also be reworked with an upgrade to a paved material needed to better define edges and access. Perimeter fencing is in poor condition and should be extended to eliminate neighborhood trespass issues. A new park sign to match standard HPD signage should be considered with more landscape to define the main park entry.
With the significant neighborhood and community use that this park gets, it is clearly due
Recommendations 1 Develop a new park master plan 1 Hold neighborhood meeting to discuss additional 1 Replace, expand and diversify playground equipment 1 Upgrade perimeter fencing and backstop/fencing to 1 Entend perimeter fencing along north property line 1 Replace park sign and enhance entry landscape 1 Replace picnic tables and benches with current District 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2
standards Rebuild walkways/paths throughout park Provide ADA accessible paths to park amenities, benches, etc. Add bicycle racks Add permanent soccer goal(s) for neighborhood use Consider adding tennis courts to the park Screen maintenance yard from park Dispose of excess materials from maintenance yard Add naturalizing plantings as transition to streambed black-vinyl-coated materials. amenities and interests of residents
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PARISEK PARK
10881 Allegheny Pass 4.2-Acre Neighborhood Park
Playground Park Sign Seating Area Garden Toilets Open Play Shelter Seating Area
Seating Area
N
Curb Appeal Access Park Sign Site Furnishings Playground Shelter Seating Areas Toilets Open Play Area Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance
Seating Area
HPD system that provides active recreation areas in the form of a playground and open play field areas but has the feel of a passive park with seating areas, gardens and open space. Located in the Georgian Place neighborhood, Parisek is bordered to the north and east by single family residential housing. Adjacent to the park on the west is the Huntley Area Public Library while across Main Street to the south is the Village of Huntley Municipal Complex. Originally built in 2004, the park provides a passive place that can be enjoyed by area agency and business workers as well as the residents. A public sidewalk leads to the park from the residential area with a bike/ped trail along Main Street providing access from the municipal complex side. There is, however, no direct access crossing Main Street or from the Library site, even though the council ring area was designed for Library use. Parking is available only on the residential neighborhood streets and through an agreement for the use of 12 spaces at the Library. From both Main Street and the Allegheny Pass frontage, park visibility is minimal due to buffering landscapes and narrow passages into the park. Fair Good Excellent Excellent Very Good Very Good Good Excellent Very Good Good Good Fair Good
Parisek Park is a unique neighborhood park in the
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PARISEK PARK There are a lot of great things about this park, and its potential to be a showplace is
outstanding. The extent of the landscape and garden areas in Parisek Park is significant, and with it the maintenance required to keep up with it. The main access off Allegheny is a narrow part of the park site, with work needed on the gravel path and weed growth to provide a more inviting entry. The gravel trails throughout the park tend to have undefined edges, with widths varying due to the migration of the gravel surface. The seating areas are large in scale with landscaping, including new shade trees, around the edges. The gravel surfaces in these areas have significant weed growth, partially due to lack of traffic and use. The idea of introducing planting beds with additional trees in the center of the seating areas, similar to a cul-de-sac island, could make them more inviting. The playground area is still in very good condition and offers a fairly good variety of play elements. Access to the playground is available through the picnic shelter or from the east side path, but no direct route from the nearest garden path is provided. The shelter is in very good condition with a few minor cracks in the concrete base. It is located to take advantage of garden/landscape views and proximity to the playground. Site furnishings are in very good condition and generally match the current HPD standards, except for an older style bike rack that is placed without an access path. The toilet facility is well-built and maintained. Several dead or barren shrubs and perennials are in evidence in the planting areas and need to be replaced. Maintenance of the extensive garden areas, paths and seating areas of this park is a significant burden on the Parks Department. In many agencies, it is done with a volunteer organization.
Recommendations . 1 Replace dead/barren plantings 1 Add planted islands within seating areas 1 2 2 3 3 3 4 4
to reduce the scale of gravel surfaces Utilize specialty paving in seating areas Add one permanent soccer goal for neighborhood use Consider adding walkway to Library Rebuild/pave walkways throughout park Replace bicycle rack with updated standard Provide direct paths to playground and bike rack Replace, expand and diversify playground equipment Consider addition of splash pad
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RED HAWKS REST

10881 Edinburgh Lane 1.0-Acre Open Space Park
Gardens
Seating Area
Park Sign
Natural Buffer Plantings
N
Red Hawks Rest is classified as open space.
While the park proper is only one acre in size, the adjacent stormwater retention pond and natural buffer plantings seem to be an extension of the park. Located in the Covington Lakes neighborhood north of Reed Road and east of Rt. 47, the park borders on residential properties to the north and east with ponds to the west and across the road to the south. Neighborhood access is excellent, with a network of public sidewalks throughout the subdivision and a public trail providing direct access into and through the park. On-street parking is readily available.
Pond
Curb Appeal Access Park Sign Interpretive Sign Seating Area Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance Excellent Excellent Excellent Excellent Excellent Fair Very Good Very Good Very Good
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RED HAWKS REST

residents to enjoy on their walks. The creative integration of the stone circle with a varied landscape and views makes this an excellent passive recreation park. A circular cobblepaver walk is surrounded by large limestone blocks placed in varying heights that can be used for seating or to be climbed on. Benches are also integrated into the design for visitors wanting a more comfortable place to sit. The landscape is a mix of native and ornamental plantings that provide significant color and texture through all seasons. There is weed growth in the planting beds and circle paving, with several barren areas in the landscape; some caused by visitors cutting corners walking into the circle and some by the erosion and dryness of the steep berm surrounding the circle. The park sign is placed outside the planting beds, adding to the already significant maintenance requirements presented at this park. The lawn area exhibits significant weed and clover growth and was extremely dry when the review took place. Consideration should be given to modifing some landscape features of the site for easier and reduced maintenance. This is another park that might benefit from a garden club or other volunteer group assisting with the significant ongoing maintenance needs.
This small passive park, built in 2005, has quickly become a favorite stop for neighborhood
Recommendations . 1 Extend planting beds out away from

the stone circle to reduce the slope of the berms and incorporate the park sign into the planting beds Plant traffic corner areas with stepable plantings that can absorb the impact Replace dead/barren plantings Consider adding a few trees to the plantings to provide shade in some of the circle Determine intended use of lawn areas and plant accordingly, with low-grow grasses or native meadow one possible solution for the area Add paved apron at bench outside circle to meet ADA Add trash can at some appropriate location where it will not conflict with the aesthetic of the park
1 1 1 1
1 1
135
RUTH FAMILY PARK

10370 Aldridge Drive 4.6-Acre Neighborhood Park
Ball Field
Basketball Soccer Field Playground Sand Play Toilets Shelter Parking Park Sign
N
Ruth
Family Park, located in the Northbridge neighborhood north of Algonquin Road just east of Pinecrest Golf Club, was constructed in 2005 and is bordered on all sides by single family housing. The park includes a ball field that is used for the Districts Girls Softball program and an overlapping field that is used for flag football, soccer and rugby. A 33-space parking lot serves the park and on-street parking is available along three bordering streets. The parking lot is striped with seven-foot wide spaces which is smaller than is considered standard. There is a good network of public sidewalks that border two sides of the park, with bike/ped trails providing access through the north and south sides of the park. The ball field is the only park amenity that does not have an accessible path. Access to the playground and sand play area is through the shelter with no direct access provided.
Curb Appeal Access Parking Park Sign Site Furnishings Playground Sand Play Shelter Toilets Basketball Ball Field Soccer Fields Athletic Turf Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance Excellent Excellent Good Excellent Very Good Excellent Poor Very Good Fair Good Good Good Good Fair Good Excellent Good
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RUTH FAMILY PARK The playground area has a few unique features including the cable climbing apparatus that
is a take-off on the old-style monkey bars. Additional 2-5 age equipment should be designed to meet the young family demographics of the neighborhood. The playground edge and the sand play edge are not well-defined with material migration to all adjacent surfaces. Both the playground and sand play area include tot picnic tables. When replacement/redesign is in order, the scale of the playground area could include shade trees integrated into the design for more immediate shade availablility. The picnic shelter and pad are in very good condition, though the eave boards have weathered significantly in a short period of time. Site furnishings include metal picnic tables, a drinking fountain, trash barrels, and several benches throughout the park. Several of the benches are located along the paths, facing away from the paths toward the playground areas, and others are placed in the lawns. All of the benches are placed over a gravel base that should be upgraded to match the paved surfaces in order to provide better access, and a better aesthetic. The ball field is in generally good condition with the infield area needing some work to eliminate the lip at the turf edge. The basketball court is in generally good condition, with a couple of cracks and paint chipping on the court surface. The toilet area needs some upgrades to the screen walls and plantings. Site landscaping includes lots of newer shade trees, berms separating use areas and screening. The addition of shade trees behind the ball field backstop can provide shade to participants and spectators alike. The steepness of some of the berms has caused erosion, weed growth, and plant dessication to be in evidence. Planting beds could also be combined to reduce mowing difficulty between numerous individual beds. Weed growth is a critical issue throughout the park that is in need of resolution.
Recommendations . 1 Undertake a program to eradicate 1 Restripe parking lot to meet Village 1 1 1 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 4

weeds throughout the park parking standards Paint/stain eaves on picnic shelter Re-cut edge and grade ball field infield Add shade trees behind the ball field Repair/resurface basketball court Edge playground and sand play areas to eliminate material migration Re-shape planting berms and combine bed edges for easier maintenance Pave accessible path and aprons to all benches Add access paths to all amenities that do not require gazebo passthrough Remove arborvitae on south side of toilets and plant shade trees and ornamental shrubs/grasses Eliminate sand play and utilize this area for tot lot apparatus or Consider addition of Splash Pad 137
TOMASO SPORTS PARK

11950 Ackman Road 38.0-Acre Community Park Park Sign Soccer Field Soccer Field Maintenance Building Soccer Field
N
Ball Field
Soccer Field
Parking
Ball Field Sand Play Baseball Feature Ball Field
Soccer Field Soccer Field
Tent Toilets Soccer Field Future Playground Soccer Field
Ball Field
Ball Field
Ball Field
omaso Sports Park is the Huntley Park Districts newest community park, providing athletic facilities Curb Appeal Very Good to meet the growing sports needs of the community. Access Excellent Located at the north end of the Talamore Parking Very Good neighborhood, this 2006 park includes eight soccer Park Sign Excellent fields and six ball fields that are used by a variety of Sand Play Good affilated athletic groups and HPD programs. Heat Tent Shelter Fair United Soccer utilizes all of the soccer fields, sharing Toilets Fair six of the fields with HPD Soccer programs. The Ball Fields Excellent Travel Team Baseball is one of four groups using the Soccer Fields Excellent ball fields in the park along with HPD Girls Softball, Athletic Turf Excellent HPD T-Ball and HPD Senior Softball. This many fields Lawns Poor at one location allows better group coordination and Paths/Trails Very Good focused maintenance and provides a venue for Maintenance Excellent hosting tournament events. The park is accessed off Ackman Road with on-site surface parking available for 172 vehicles and grass parking for an additional 60-75. Pedestrian access into the park is provided via four walkways that connect to the sidewalk along Ackman Road. Internal walkways loop the ball field area and soccer area providing excellent access to virtually all the sports venue.
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TOMASO SPORTS PARK

elements will turn this from an excellent 1 Install playground sports park into an outstanding one. The 1 Work with Village/IDOT to install playground, lighting and other elements at wayfinding signage on Route 47 Tomaso are needed to meet existing community needs and expectations. With six 1 Construct toilet/concession building ball fields, each has its own nuances that 2 Add overhead mesh between grouped make it different. All the ballfields are ball fields to provide filtered shade generally in excellent condition, with few and protect against foul balls weeds, few bare areas, well-defined infields, 2 Install parking lot landscape and quality fencing. Field E is sloped 2 Install grass pavers in overflow parking downhill from home plate to center field area slightly more than is optimal, but drainage 2 Install shade trees in lawn areas patterns may have dictated this vertical behind backstops layout. The soccer fields are also in excellent 2 Screen maintenance building condition overall, with only a few areas of 2 Install lights on athletic fields turf needing fill/repair, and good quality 2 Add bike racks goals. The trail system is made up of paved 3 Add smaller version of Tomaso Park trails internal to the park and gravel on the sign and gateway landscaping at perimeter. As development of the park Talamore pedestrian entry progresses, all the trails should be paved to 3 Pave all paths/trails throughout the continue the quality presentation and ease of park maintenance. A toilet building and 4 Revisit grades on ball field E to reduce concessions will be critical in the short term, center field depression as porta-potties and wheeled concessions do 4 Construct Field Turf fields not meet the needs when the park is at or near capacity. Even though the park is of excellent quality and is filling the need of the community, it still has an unfinished feel. Landscaping the parking lot, screening the maintenance building, providing shade in appropriate places and creating a small gateway at the Talimore entry will collectively help give the park a more finished feel, with other improvements/enhancements over time.
Completion of the unfinished master plan
Recommendations
139
TURES PARK
10251 Fleetwood Street 10.4-Acre Neighborhood Park
Basketball Parking Playground Park Sign Shelter Sand Play Football Field Ball Field
N
Tures Park, located in the Heritage neighborhood south of Main Street and east of Haligus
Road, offers a good variety of traditional amenities and activities. The park is bordered by single-family housing to the north and east, a stormwater retention pond to the west and open space on the south. Constructed in 2003, the park includes a ball field that is used for the HPD Girls Softball program and a football field for HPD Flag Football. The open field area has also been in use for soccer and rugby. A 13-space parking lot serves the park, with parking also available on-street in front of the park and the detention pond. There is a public sidewalk Conditions Assessment along the front of the park, with a trail looping the Curb Appeal Very Good park and connecting, between homes, to Fleetwood Access Excellent Street on the east. The shelter is the only amenity Parking Very Good with a direct walkway connection within the park. Park Sign Very Good Site Furnishings Playground Sand Play Shelter Toilets Basketball Ball Field Soccer Fields Athletic Turf Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance Good Very Good Poor Very Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Very Good
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TURES PARK
working toward District-wide ADA compliance. The playground areas, basketball, ball field, benches, and toilet all need direct access. The playground area has some nice features, but lacks diversity in providing adequate tot lot apparatus. The playground edge and the sand play edge are not well-defined, with material migration to all adjacent surfaces. Young shade trees have been planted adjacent to the playground, with greater integration possible when the playground is due for replacement. The picnic shelter is still in very good condition, with only minor cracks in the concrete base. Site furnishings include metal picnic tables, trash barrels, and benches which are placed over a gravel base in lawn areas. The basketball court is in generally good condition with its non-square shape an interesting anomaly. Lawn areas exhibit weed growth throughout the park with the athletic field turf being the best. The ball field is in good condition with resurfacing/edging of the infield due within a few years. Site landscaping is generally good with some modifications needed to help reduce maintenance. There is weed growth in many planting beds along with some barren areas and trees/shrubs that require pruning. The trees/shrubs planted in individual beds only a few feet from each other cause the need for excess maintenance care. More shade trees, especially at the ball field and basketball court, would be a nice addition.
Accessible routes to the park amenities are one of the most important needs at this park in
Recommendations . 1 Undertake a program to eradicate weeds 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 4
throughout the park Repair water fountain to eliminate spray Repair/replace warped picnic table Add access paths to all park amenities Prune trees and replace dead trees Add new plantings to park sign and rules sign areas Edge playground and sand play areas to eliminate material migration Recut edge and grade ball field infield surface Resurface and square off basketball court Add shade trees in/around playground area, basketball court and ball field Resurface parking lot Add permanent soccer goal(s) for neighborhood use Reshape/combine planting bed edges for easier maintenance Replace playground and expand tot lot area Eliminate sand play and utilize this area for tot lot apparatus Repair shelter base concrete Consider addition of splash pad
141
WARRINGTON PARK
12209 West Main Street 62.0-Acre Community Park Parking REC Parking Center Pond Parking Pond Park Sign Soccer Fields Parking Parking Ball Field Sun Valley Farm Parking Ball Fields
Playground Volleyball
Ball Field
Stingray Bay Aquatic Center
Shelter
Cosman Cultural Center, Stingray Bay Aquatic Center, and Sun Valley Farm. The park is partially bordered by single-family homes in the West Main Street neighborhood to the northeast and the Lions Chase neighborhood to the west. Deicke Park borders Warrington on the east with farmland to the northwest and the south. Constructed in 1999, the park includes five ball fields designed for and used by Huntley Youth Baseball Little League and four soccer fields that are used by HPD Soccer and Flag Football. The park can be accessed off Main Street or Mill Street, both of which connect to Rt. 47. Parking is available for 450 vehicles divided into six different lots. The small lot east of the REC Center is used for employee parking, with the service drive used to accommodate additional vehicles. Because this is a destination park, pedestrian access Conditions Assessment into the park is somewhat limited, but still very good. There are neighborhood sidewalks linking the park Curb Appeal Excellent from both residential areas and multiple paths Access Very Good coming from Deike Park. Residents of Del Webbs Parking Very Good Sun City have expressed interest in a path that will Park Sign Very Good link to their community. Such access is possible Site Furnishings Very Good utilizing the existing pathway through Lions Gate Playground Fair and crossing the stream/natural resource area, or Shelter Very Good following a future extension of Kreutzer Road. Toilets Fair Ball Fields Soccer Fields Athletic Turf Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance Excellent Very Good Very Good Good Very Good Very Good Very Good
Betsey Warrington Park is an active recreation park that is also home to the REC Center,
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WARRINGTON PARK
toward offering amenities and facilities common to the entire community, with little on a neighborhood park level. Deicke Park next door provides the neighborhood park-type amenities that serve the nearby residential neighborhoods. There is a very small playground area just east of the sand volleyball court within Stingray Bay. This playground is used very little, as it sits high above the ball fields and outside the pool fenceline with no pathway leading to it. The equipment is not very diverse and somewhat outdated. Consideration should be given to providing better access to this playground and to building a new playground to serve families at the two ball fields in the center of the park. Site furnishings are limited to the picnic tables in the shelter and trash cans placed throughout the park. All lawn areas exhibit some weed growth throughout the park, with the athletic field turf being the best and remote areas the detention pond at Main Street exhibiting the most weed growth. The edges of this pond also show erosion and slumping, with stabilization and buffer plantings needed to address the issues long-term. The ball fields are generally in excellent condition, with the soccer field area generally very good. Site landscaping is very good, with some modifications needed in parking lot beds to replace dead materials, fill in barren spots and ensure safe visibility. There is also some weed growth in many planting beds. More shade trees should be added especially behind the ball fields.
Warrington is the central hub of the Huntley Park District and is geared almost entirely
Recommendations 1 Replace dead plant materials in 1 Add accessible path to existing

parking lot beds playground serving south ball fields
2 Provide ADA accessible paths to ball 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 4 4
field bleacher areas and to soccer fields Add 18-hole disc golf course using shelter area as starting point for nine holes north and nine holes south Add lights to ball fields at Stingray Bay Add new playground between REC Center parking area and ball fields Add shade tree grove between ball fields nearest REC Center Consider adding tennis courts just south of Stingray Bay parking or near shelter parking Repair/reseal parking lots and Lois Lane Increase shelter area parking for soccer use Stabilize pond edges and create a nomow buffer zone of natural plants and grasses Build concession/toilet/storage building to serve ball field/soccer area Add second park sign, or wayfinding sign, at Rt.47 and Mill Street 143
WEISS PARK
Bennington Drive at York Road 4.6-Acre Neighborhood Park
Basketball Parking Gazebo Playground Ball Field Skate Park
Ball Field
N
eiss Park, located in the Southwind neighborhood north of Reed Road and east of Haligus Road, offers a good variety of amenities and activities for neighborhood residents. The park is bordered entirely by single-family housing. Constructed in 2001, the park includes two ball fields that are used for Huntley Youth Baseball Little League and for the Districts Softball and T-ball programs. A 22-space parking lot serves the park with overflow available along some of the residential streets. However, the close spacing of residential driveways limits spaces available and can cause conflicts. The end spaces in the parking lot can be difficult to exit due to the dead-end nature of the lot. There is a good network of public sidewalks and a trail to access the park with paved and gravel paths into the park amenities. The entire perimeter path is gravel. Defined access to the playgrounds and sand play area is through the gazebo with no direct access provided. All of the trails need to be re-built with paving a recommended upgrade throughout the park. Overall, the park is in very good condition for a ten-year-old facility. 144
Curb Appeal Access Parking Park Sign Site Furnishings Playground Sand Play Gazebo Toilets Basketball Skate Park Ball Fields Soccer Fields Athletic Turf Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance Excellent Excellent Very Good Very Good Very Good Good Good Excellent Very Good Very Good Good Good Good Very Good Good Very Good Very Good Very Good
WEISS PARK
mix of activities. The playground, at ten years old, shows some signs of wear and should be updated within a few years. This playground/gazebo configuration may be a good candidate to design with an integrated landscape. A sand play area is adjacent to the tot lot area, with an edging that seems to separate the sand from the play surface fairly well. Where the planting beds and playground mulch come together, however, it is difficult to distinguish between the two surfaces. The metal-roofed gazebo adds a great aesthetic in the park and will need some painting soon to maintain this aesthetic. Site furnishings include metal picnic tables matching the gazebo, trash barrels, benches, and bicycle racks. The balls fields are generally in good condition with minor fencing maintenance, infield maintenance, and weed control needed. The soccer field is also in very good condition, with all athletic turf areas exhibiting limited weed and clover growth. The basketball court is in generally good condition, though there is significant staining of the surface. The skate park is in good condition. Users do move things around from time to time to meet their staking preferences; a condition that should be monitored regularly for safety. The toilet facility is in very good condition. Common lawn areas exhibit some weed growth throughout the park, which is significant in some areas. Site landscaping is nicely done and has a good textural variety and lots of color in some areas.
The Park has a tot lot and 5-12 play area separated by the gazebo. There is a fairly good
Recommendations 1 Undertake a program to eradicate 1
1 2 2 3 3 3
weeds throughout the park Edge playground and planting bed mulch areas to create clear separation and eliminate material migration Sand/paint gazebo posts Recut edge and grade ball field infield surface Resurface parking lot Rebuild/pave all paths, and include direct access to the playground areas Add permanent soccer goal for neighborhood use Replace playground and tot lot, and consider a Nature Play type design with direct access from pathways
145
146
CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Facility Assessment
FACILITY EVALUATION CRITERIA
148
FACILITY ASSESSMENT
Huntley Park District recreation facilities provide unique services and amenities for the residents of the community. Each facility was evaluated during the detailed on-site inventory and assessment of the parks, with a focus on how the facilities work operationally. Programmatic and capital evaluations were also completed in a general manner that provides an overview of facility needs and recommendations. Unlike the park assessments, no condition ratings are included here as most of the facilities are relatively new and are on a general timetable for replacements of major systems and furnishings. Facility recommendations are prioritized to provide the basis of the capital improvements, maintenance intiatives and operational modifications that may involve a change of use, expansion or other policy-related initiatives. These recommendations are based on the inventory and assessment of each facility, findings from the visioning process, and on a general understanding of the funding opportunities that may be appropriate for future projects.
OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The operational recommendations identify modifications to current facilities that change the use of space to provide more efficient operations, programs, and services. These recommendations will require additional first priority recommendations (see below) that will allow these spaces to be utilized in the manner described.
Recommendations identified as first priority should be initiated within the next two years. These priorities are deemed important because they represent current needs and initiatives as well as initiatives relative to safety. Others are attached to operational modifications that are needed to prepare spaces for new programmed uses.
Third priority recommendations present improvements that should be completed to expand the use of a facility, or replacement of facility amenities/finishes that are still viable but need to be scheduled for replacement within this planning period.
149
PINECREST GOLF CLUB

11220 Algonquin Road 130-Acre Special Use Site
Pinecrest Golf Club, designed by Ted Locke, opened in 1972, and was purchased by the
Huntley Park District in June of 2003. The District initiated renovations to the course and clubhouse with the new clubhouse facility opening in 2008. The clubhouse includes a pro shop, the Pinecrest Restaurant, a snack bar, meeting rooms, and maintenance/storage facilities. There is an outdoor deck overlooking the practice green with views across many areas of the course. The course is an 18-hole, 6,604-yard par 72 course with a rating of 71.5. There are 63 sand bunkers and five lakes on the course, which is very well maintained and has very high use by residents and visitors. Several leagues play here, and the Club offers group and private lessons for all ability levels. The practice facility includes a driving range with three target greens, a practice green, and a chipping green with bunker.
150
PINECREST GOLF CLUB

The irrigation system is original to the course and, along with the current shallow wells and pump station, will need to be replaced soon. The open air cart storage area causes carts to be wet with dew/frost in mornings causing added prep as golfers arrive. The 1988 maintenance building still functions well, though a maintenance lift will be helpful for working on equipment. Conversion of the fairways from Bluegrass to Bentgrass is being considered throughout the course as a phased improvement. While new landscaping was installed with the renovation of the clubhouse, other landscape improvements throughout the course will improve the overall aesthetic of the course. Ongoing modifications of tee configurations, bunker locations, and landscape elements can keep the course fresh and challenging for golfers.
Recommendations 1 Hole by Hole Improvements

#1 Extend main tee to service road #4 Add new blue tee, move toilets & prune trees to accommodate tee location #5 New tee designations #6 New tee designations #7 New tee designations #9 New tee designations #10 New tee designations #12 Remove north bunker & build new bunker in center of fairway adds character to hole #13 New tee designations #14 Add series of bunkers on right side of fairway #15 New tee designations #16 New tee designations #17 New tee designations #18 New tee designations New irrigation system New deep well New pump station New maintenance lift for equipment Rebuild bridge on #1 Fairway turf conversion (gradual) Landscape improvements at hole markers, bridges and other key visible areas to improve aesthetics Cart storage area canopy & electrical upgrade 151
1 1 1 1 1 2 2 4
DEICKE RECREATION CENTER

In Deicke Park 11419 South Route 47
administration office and is currently home to the Districts Finance Department and to the Greater Huntley Chamber of Commerce. The main entry opens onto a foyer, with a reception and office area to the right, and a meeting room and a multi-use space to the left and rear. This space also has a small galley kitchen area. The HPD offices can be entered from the foyer but also have a separate entry on the south side of the building. This space includes three small offices and a general area with traditional office cubicles. The building also includes restrooms and a small storage/maintenance area with garage door access. With the Chamber moving to new offices, HPD is free to explore new options for use of the building. Consideration is being given to a variety of uses, including a teen center, event and meeting space, HPD programs and use by area non-profit agencies. Consideration is also being given to moving the Finance Department into the REC Center to eliminate the inefficiencies of being separated from the other HPD department functions. Future uses will need to consider location, access, and functional use of the space. Because Deicke Park is a destination-type park, and is located on the busy Route 47 corridor, use as a teen center may not be the best choice. Use by non-profits for offices will require consideration of the existing signage/use conflicts.
Deicke Recreation Center is the former District
Recommendations Move Finance Department to REC Center Offer finance area as a potential non-profit office space 1 Renovate lobby, multi-purpose space, meeting room and Chamber area to 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
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accommodate HPD programs as well as night/weekend meeting/event rentals Clean & paint all areas Renovate/upgrade kitchen area Upgrade flooring throughout Upgrade window treatments in event/meeting spaces Install alternative lighting in event/meeting spaces Install audio/visual system in event/meeting spaces Install audio system in multi-purpose space Stock/provide flexible meeting/event furnishings and dcor Reconfigure parking for ADA compliance
DEICKE LOG CABIN
Boy Scouts. Reconstructed in Deicke Park approximately 70 years later, the cabin was moved and rebuilt by volunteers using more modern construction techniques to help ensure its longevity. The cabin, and adjacent outhouse, presents an interesting historical component to the park. Though the log cabin is little used, the unique image of this building draws people to it who visit the park. The inside of the cabin has a small fireplace and picnic tables for use by groups. The outhouse adjacent to the cabin is a working pit toilet. While it has a lot of architectural character, there are issues with trash, pumping, and odors that need to be addressed.
The log cabin in Deicke Park was originally built in Donahoes Woods in the 1920s by the
Recommendations 1 1 1
Collaborate with the Huntley Historical Society in developing historical exhibits in the cabin Consider HHS use of the property for conducting tours/exhibits Replace picnic tables with allwooden tables Fill toilet pit and seal outhouse structure to maintain as a complement to the log cabin Add portable toilets with fencing and landscape along trail, and provide wayfinding signage near playground and cabin Add interpretive signage and photos inside the cabin 153
DEICKE DISCOVERY ZONE

Opened in 2010, Deicke Discovery Zone is a
playground, yet so much more. The Discovery Zone was designed to provide a play experience that includes sights, sounds, and activities for children of all ability levels. Each area has a theme ranging from space exploration to music, that is also identified in the poured-in-place playground surface. The entry has a grand lighted sign above and a compass paving pattern below. The playground includes an area that replicates the Village of Huntley, with a barber shop, Dairy Mart and police station, along with a mural of the Village Green. There is a large music-themed tot lot area in the center of the playground. The Bankshot basketball area has 14 hoops, some of which are almost impossible not to score. A large chalkboard provides children with an opportunity to show their artistic side, while remote speakers allow children in different parts of the playground to communicate with each other. There are landscaped beds with ornamental grasses and pear trees, and some shade provided by the large trees at the perimeter of the playground. Picnic tables, sculpture, and seating areas add to the overall childrens discovery environment. Visibility within the playground is excellent for parents keeping track of their children.
Recommendations 1 Consider shade trees in place of
pears should replacement become necessary and shade structure(s) in high use areas 1 Increase landscape maintenance to eliminate weeds, prune dead branches, and fill barren planting bed areas.
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STINGRAY BAY FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER

tingray Bay opened in June of 2002 to provide aquatic recreation to residents of the District and visitors. The aquatic facility includes two water slides, a zero depth beach area, a six-lane competition pool, diving boards and other features for children and adults. Other amenities include a large sun deck, open lawn areas, a picnic area, sand volleyball, and a large sand play area located well away from the pool to minimize sand migration. The aquatic center building provides restroom and locker room facilities, a reception desk, a snack bar, and staff offices. The existing facility is a compact and efficient design that places all the aquatic features within a single system. The aquatics mechanical system is currently at 75% capacity thus allowing for expansion/additional amenities to be considered. Because of the existing layout, any expansion will likely be a stand-alone feature or will require relocation of other amenities within the facility. At 10 years of age, the facility is still in very good condition given the high use that it receives during summer months. Season Pass holders surveyed give Stingray Bay very high marks in all categories from safety to staff and from cleanliness to amenities. Lazy river Recommendations
In Warrington Park 12219 Lois Lane
2 Add a new Therapy pool playground within the existing fence line splash 2 Add sound system improvements 3 Add a half-pipe water slide or other active water play structure that will appeal to a wide cross-section of the public; including teens and adults 3 Add climbing wall for teens/adults 3 Identify and utilize green technologies to power aquatics systems and provide electricity to facility, including a passive thermal solar heating system, solar panels and/or wind turbines
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REC CENTER
In Warrington Park 12015 Mill Street
lucky to be able to acquire a former public school building to convert into a recreation center. The REC Center opened in April of 2005 in the former Huntley High School building, which was purchased by the District and renovated/expanded to meet the recreational needs of the community. The REC Center includes the Districts administrative offices, program registration office, and maintenance facility. There is an abundance of storage available in different locations throughout the building. Overall the REC Center is in excellent condition and continues to meet community needs. Each area of the facility has a very different feel with opportunities for upgrades to add interest in some areas. The main foyer is nicely designed with earth-tone stone walls and flooring adding warmth. The area is used as a lobby for the Cosman Cultural Center and includes a coatroom and a production kiosk. The Cosman provides a dance studio and a performing arts theater with seating for 286 patrons. The theater is used by the Greenroom Productions to stage their annual theater season as well as by a church group and various other community and HPD programs. The dance studio has a viewing gallery with mirrored glass.
Like many park and recreation agencies across the country, the Huntley Park District was
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REC CENTER
The registration offices off the lobby are open and well-lighted with the Grand Hall offering views into the gymnasium, vending machines, and a gallery area for rotating art exhibits. The gymnasium is used for indoor athletic programs including basketball, volleyball, and pickleball. The gymnasium has its own lobby area on the lower level which is where locker room facilities, restrooms, and storage facilities are located. The Fitness Center offers a variety of fitness equipment and programs to the community at affordable fees, and offers the Kids Club Babysitting for Fitness Center patrons. The Senior Lounge, with an activity area and pool table, is located adjacent to the maintenance area and doubles as a maintenance staff area. The old school provides typical classroom environment for HPD programs, including arts & crafts programs and Seedlings Pre-School, which has a dedicated playground area. There is also an outdoor courtyard area that provides light into classrooms, but is otherwise not utilized. The cafeteria space includes a full kitchen and is utilized for programs, senior events, and as a rental space. The Recreation Department offices are also located here, off the old school entry foyer, where parents often wait for their children at the end of their programs.
Recommendations 1 2 2 2
3 4
Install a new computer system with new server(s) and integrated software Convert Locust Room to offices for Finance Department Add enclosed offices and cubicle spaces to the Locust Room Redevelop courtyard with pavers, large planters and specialty furnishings Redesign Mill Street recreation lobby to better accommodate traffic and waiting parents Phase the addition of park site plans, photos, art, murals and other recreation-related dcor throughout the building especially in the Grand Hall, lower lobby, Mill Street lobby, and Dance Studio corridor Redevelop Miss Connies Playground utilizing Naturegrounds techniques for integrating plantings and shade trees into the playground Phase in rooftop wind/solar components as well as solar outdoor lighting 157
SUN VALLEY FARM

In Warrington Park 12209 West Main Street Deicke Farmstead on West Main at the entry to Warrington Park. The farm is a McHenry County Historic Preservation Commission (MCHPC) Landmark and was purchased by the Park District with the aid of an Illinois Department of Natural Resources grant. The farm is a collection of seven buildings that includes the old farmhouse and a barn that dates back to the 1840s or 50s. The farmhouse was renovated at various times over the years and now has little resemblance to the original homestead. Vinyl siding and a sun porch added in the 1970s hide much of the farmhouse character. Inside there is a combination of historic wallpapers and timber trusses along with drop-ceilings and wood paneling. The barn and outbuildings recently had new asphalt shingle roofing installed. Much of the property is currently being used for storage by the Parks Department. There are bins behind the barn that contain sand, gravel, mulch and other siterelated maintenance materials.
Sun Valley Farm is a part of the old Stowell-
Recommendations 1 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
Collaborate with the Huntley Historical Society in the preservation and renovation of the farm buildings and site Consider HHS use of the property for conducting tours/exhibits and use as Society offices Design covers for use on materials bins Remove sun porch from homestead Restore clapboard siding and cedar shake roof to homestead Preserve/restore original interior finishes, including floors, wallpapers, ceilings, timber trusses, etc. Demolish garage building Preserve/restore outbuildings, and research uses Acquire furnishings and farm equipment to replicate mid-late 1800s period Rebuild smokehouse foundation
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CHAPTER
10
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Recreation Programs
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RECREATION PROGRAMS
The Huntley Park District offers a significant variety of quality recreation, education, cultural, health, fitness, and athletic programs to the residents of the District. Three times each year a program brochure that describes the program offerings is published and delivered to households within the District. Programs are presented in a variety of categories with a variety of offerings in each category. Program categories can be very general with offerings that appeal to a wide range of participants or can be specific to an age group or a venue within the District.
The preschool and early childhood programs offered through the Huntley Park District are quite diverse in scope and age. The Seedlings Preschool provides an active learning environment with both individual and group activities. There is also a Night Owl Preschool offered in the evening. Camp Seedlings provides themed camps that run for one week each during the summer. Other programs are offered in dance, music, art, crafts, tumbling and a variety of other categories. Family activities are offered for parents and children with some including grandparents as well.
Preschool/Early Childhood Programs
Youth Programs
Youth programs are offered in dance, music, art, crafts, tumbling, and a variety of other categories at the next level after early childhood. Many of these programs focus on more specific interests such as magic, guitar, cooking, science, or cheerleading as examples. Summer camps with weekly themes are available for two age groups, as are weekly field trips to area attractions. Programs and events for families are also offered as well as a variety of aquatics and athletic programs.
Teen Programs
The teen program offerings include a variety of events and special interest programs. Guitar, cooking, and crafts are some of the programs available with some adult programs also including teens. Middle school dances are offered monthly during the school year. Themed summer camps and regional field trips are also offered as well as a variety of aquatics and athletic programs. An American Red Cross Babysitters Training program provides a safety course for ages 11-15 interested in developing the skills needed for responsible care of children.
Extended Time Program
The Huntley Park District, in cooperation with Consolidated School District 158, provides before and after school programs for K-5 students at five elementary schools. These programs are great for households with working parents as the program begins at 6:30AM and ends at 6:00PM on either side of the school day schedule. The District also provides activities during school out days as well as certain week-long programs during winter and spring breaks.
Adult Programs
The Districts adult population is offered a variety of programs in the visual arts, cooking, dance, fitness, aquatics, and athletics.
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The Senior Lounge at the REC Center provides a venue for a variety of passive interests and social interaction. There is also a monthly luncheon where seniors gather for presentations on a variety of topics. And there is monthly bingo as well. For those looking for more active pursuits, there are a variety of athletics programs, including volleyball, pickleball, softball, golf, swimming, and other activities. Seniors do, of course, also participate in the special interest programs and events offered by the District including dance, visual arts, and cooking classes.
Active Adult/Senior Programs
Fitness & Wellness Programs
The District offers a series of individual, group and specialty fitness and wellness programs at the fitness center and dance studio. Fitness activities include group fitness classes, yoga, pilates, zumba and belly dancing are offered, as well as nutrition and weight loss classes.
Dance Programs
Dance programs are offered through the Center Stage Dance Academy with classes held at their facility, at the REC Center Dance Studio, and in schools. Programs are available in a variety of dance styles including ballet, tap, jazz, and specialty programs for children. Certain styles are offered for children while others for adults and seniors. A wide variety of athletics programs are available through the Huntley Park District. The District offers childrens programs that provide the basics in a variety of sports as well as teen programs to help develop those skills. Youth and teen programs are available in baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, basketball, volleyball, tennis, wrestling, and other sports. Local, independent, volunteer-run sports organizations team with HPD to provide organized sports programs that have regularly scheduled practices and games during their normal sport season. Adult sports programs and leagues include soccer, softball, basketball, and pickleball.
Athletics Programs
Swim Programs
Six swim lesson levels from introductory through stroke endurance are offered at the Stingray Bay Family Aquatic Center. Two additional levels are offered for tots and for parent/tot tandems. Typical classes at each level range from 30-40 minutes in duration with eight classes per session, with an opportunity to advance to the next level of instruction. The District also offers the Stingrays Swim Team of the North Central Illinois Swim Conference. An American Red Cross Guardstart program for ages 11 and up provides basic understanding and skills for future lifeguards. The follow-up Red Cross Lifeguarding Certification class is also available. This class is open to individuals 16 and older. Pinecrest Golf Club offers private and group lessons, clinics, and leagues for various age groups. Illinois Shotokan Karate programs are offered for children and adults and cover safety and karate instruction from beginner through all belt levels. These programs help the student develop greater self-discipline, concentration, coordination, and endurance. Ten-week programs are available throughout the year
Golf Programs
Martial Arts Programs
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RECREATION PROGRAMS
The District provides inclusive recreational opportunities for all interested individuals with special needs. HPD is a member of the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA) that provides programs and services for individuals of all ages. Program offerings include a variety of sports, social clubs, special events, trips, performing arts, summer camps, and art programs. NISRA also provides Special Olympic sports training in ten different categories.
Special Needs Programs
Events
The Huntley Park District offers a variety of seasonal events that appeal to a variety of interests and tastes. Summer Concerts in the Park, Fall Fest, the Fishing Derby, Community Garage Sale, Halloween Family Fun Day and Dog-tober Fest are some of the events that bring residents and visitors to the HPD parks and facilities.
PROGRAM COMPETITION
One of the challenges facing the Huntley Park District is that it overlaps the Villages of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin, each of which have a municipal recreation department that offers programs that compete directly with HPD programs. Other area park districts, including those in Elgin and Crystal Lake, also compete with HPD, though on a more indirect level. Private fitness clubs do, of course, present HPD residents with alternatives that include things like indoor pools, more diverse equipment, racquet courts or more fitness/wellness programs. And regional golf courses offer a change of scenery and a variety of difficulty levels that appeal to local golf patrons. Another major competitor is the Del Webb Sun City community, which makes up a large percentage of the population of the District, yet offers its own recreation facilities, amenities and programs to its residents. Del Webb boasts its own 18-hole golf course, swimming pool, parks, numerous recreation programs, trips, and athletic leagues. While many Sun City residents golf at Pinecrest, swim at Stingray Bay, and participate in pickleball and other HPD programs, the offerings available at Sun City rival many park and recreation agencies. These factors all play into the need for the Huntley Park District to look for ways to gain a competitive advantage and to find ways to set themselves apart from these other agencies and venues. But it also presents an opportunity for collaboration. While the Huntley Park District does have some collaborative initiatives in place with Lake in the Hills, Algonquin, and Del Webb for use of fields and some joint programs, additional opportunities do exist. 163
RECREATION PROGRAMS
The cancellation rates for recreation programs offered by other area parks and recreation agencies presents opportunities for collaboration to avoid redundancies and fill program spaces. HPD programs could be offered to those residents living outside the boundaries of the District at a resident rate especially for programs that are not always at capacity or are often cancelled. With both Algonquin and LITH offering programs not available in the Huntley Park District, a reciprocal arrangement could offer those additional programs to HPD residents while helping them achieve the capacity needed to avoid cancellation. The chart below identifies, in general terms, where the Huntley Park District, Lake in the Hills and Algonquin offer programs in similar areas, and where each agency does not offer programs. For collaboration to be initiated, a more detailed assessment of the program offerings of the three agencies should be completed.
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RECREATION PROGRAMS
Developing fair and appropriate fees for HPD programs requires an understanding of the costs, both direct and indirect, that are attributable to any given program. Direct program costs may include instructor salary, classroom supplies and equipment, possibly including a percentage of the value of major equipment (e.g. a kiln for ceramics) based on typical replacement lifecycle. Indirect costs include most overhead costs such as program registration staff, custodial services, utilities and building insurance. HPD should be able to determine an approximate value for these overhead costs that can be applied to any given program in any given venue. All programs should be tracked to determine if the fees are within reasonable range of the costs. Costs should be evaluated prior to initiation of new programs to help determine the appropriate fee. Another factor that should be considered in developing a fee structure is the level of difficulty of a program as it affects use of space and number of participants. An example of this cost/recovery consideration is a general swim program that has 25 participants versus a diving program that only has 3 due to the specialized nature of the program. If each program runs for the same amount of time, and utilizes the same part of the aquatics facility, it is easy to understand that the individual fee associated with the specialized program needs to be significantly higher than individual fee for the more general program. In other words, the cost/recovery ratio is nearly the same. This type of evaluation helps determine when programs are cancelled due to lack of registered participants and should also be considered when determining program fees.
Program Fees & Costs
Program Needs
The Huntley Park District has done a good job of understanding the interests of its residents, and adapting programs and facilities to meet that understanding. The 2010 Community Survey provides the District with current needs and interests that play well into thinking about program development. When asked what will be of interest to members of your household over the next five years, there were many responses that are program related, with 33% identifying Adult Programs for the 21-55+ age range as a top need. This is particularly important as programs for adults are a need for which HPD, like many park and recreation agencies, is not a current focus. The other responses that topped 20% of the responses include walking/running, fitness, swimming/diving, bicycling, baseball/softball, family activities, and golf. While some of these may lead to new trail development and expansion of existing facilities, the Huntley Park District is well positioned to meet these primary needs. 165
RECREATION PROGRAMS
Program Recommendations
While many program offerings by park and recreation agencies maintain user interest over time, other interests change with shifts in demographics, age, and fads that permeate society. Maintaining the base of long-term programs is essential. But it is equally important to look for ways to provide programs that appeal to an even greater cross-section of the public, and to recognize trends that affect participation and interest. Based on survey results, demographics, area competition, and current program offerings, below are a series of recommendations that can guide the enhancement of recreation programs offered by the Huntley Park District:
Program Evaluation
Develop post-program mini-surveys for use after all HPD programs to evaluate the value, instruction and content of programs, as well as interest in advanced levels of similar programs. Conduct periodic user preference surveys to evaluate existing programs, identify recreation trends, monitor the viability of existing programs, and promote interest in new programs. Work with Lake in the Hills and Algonquin to review program offerings, including age categories, proficiency levels and venues, to determine where program collaboration is viable and to the benefit of all communities. Work with Huntley athletic organizations to promote collaboration with Lake in the Hills and Algonquin athletic organizations in developing leagues and sharing facilities.
Program Collaboration
Establish relationships with Lake in the Hills, Algonquin, Centegra, and Sun City to continually review common issues, develop solutions beneficial to residents, and promote HPD interests. Work with the Huntley Library District and local citizens to form a Huntley Garden Club that can promote gardening activities and programs in the community. Work with Greenroom Productions to create performing arts programs for all age categories and ability levels. Create flexible program scheduling that will meet the lifestyle needs of more District residents including later evening and weekend programming that will attract working adults. Evaluate HPD programs to determine which programs are most popular over long time frames and provide additional sessions of popular programs to meet community demand. Continue to expand the variety of programs including educational, recreational and fitness, which allow participation by family groups. Create programs that focus on health and wellness topics for children and adults including programs that can be taken into schools.
Program Access
Family Programs

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RECREATION PROGRAMS
Create additional senior programs that provide greater opportunities to exercise motor skills through repetitive motion and engage the mind with significant detail to help keep individuals active and interested in recreation. Computer games and trivia are two introductions to be considered. Expand senior activities and programs in computers, music, exercise activities, reading, and games to promote expanded interest and use of facilities and amenities. Work with Sun City to develop collaborative programs that utilize both Sun City and HPD parks and facilities. Develop cycling, walking, and running programs, and events that are marketed regionally. Develop a series of cooking classes focusing on regional and ethnic cuisines, quick family meals, and healthy eating. Add advanced/master levels in appropriate programs to develop life-long users of HPD programs and facilities. Experiment with visual arts programs, computer classes, language classes, writing, public speaking classes, music appreciation, and other programs for adults. Explore the development of more teen programs that while pre-programmed by HPD are presented via social media as spontaneous offerings. These programs would not be published in the regular program brochure but advertised using social medium. Develop additional teen nights at the REC Center that focus on music, adventure activities, and other events that will appeal to the teen population. Expand teen activities and programs in basketball, music center, computers, and performing arts. Add natural resource programs in collaboration with the McHenry County Conservation District that utilize presentations at Cosman or on-site field studies at the Exner Marsh Conservation area. Develop landscape design and horticulture programs to assist homeowners with the basics of lawn and garden design and maintenance. Provide environmental educational programs that enhance District residents relationship with the natural world and promote environmentally sensitive lifestyles. Continue to work with Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA) in developing and increasing the quality of programs for individuals with special needs.
Adult Programs

Teen Programs
Environmental Programs
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Special Events
Consider hosting athletic tournament events bringing in teams from the entire region. Consider developing a Tour-de-Huntley cycling event for local/regional participants.
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CHAPTER
11
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Marketing & Communications
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MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

As in most park and recreation agencies, Huntley Park District residents typically have a somewhat limited knowledge of the District that focuses on specific parks, programs or events that are of interest. Some residents have a general belief, as evidenced by responses to the Community Survey, that HPD programs and parks are mostly, if not entirely, for children. Survey respondents, as well as stakeholders and park/program users that participated in the visioning process, expressed significant interest in HPD, but also identified misperceptions about the District. Presenting the District to the public in as broad a manner as possible can generate more interest in the variety of facilities and programs available, create a good understanding of parks and recreation, and make the District a more integral part of the lives of HPD residents.
The best marketing tool available to a parks & recreation agency is effective communications that utilizes a variety of ways to reach out to both HPD users and non-users alike. Developing quality publications that reflect the character of the District help brand HPD and further develop its image. Like the parks and facilities, branding the style and quality of the Districts communications is an excellent way to create greater recognition of HPD while providing information about programs and events to the community. Seasonal Program Brochure & Flyers The seasonal program brochure is published three times a year by HPD. It is very well done and includes detailed information on programs and events, plus information on parks, facilities, volunteer needs, and some advertising. There is a good mix of photographs and highlighted programs, with instructor bios where appropriate. Registration instructions are clear, with options available for online, walk-in, mail, and fax program registration. HPD Commissioners and staff are identified as well as information on partnering organizations. Over 80% of the Community Survey respondents identified the seasonal program brochure as the most effective resource for communication. Yet as good as the program brochure is at providing great information about the District, over 30% of the respondents identified dont know what is offered as a reason for nonparticipation. And some respondents living in those areas of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin that are within the boundaries of HPD do not have a clear understanding of the availability of HPD services where their own municipalities also provide parks and recreation, even though they receive the seasonal program brochure every few months. Flyers and facility brochures published by the District are an important marketing tool with approximately 44% of the survey respondents identifying them as an effective resource. On any given day, numerous flyers are available at HPD facilities that market a variety of events, programs, and facilities. These focused publications are great marketing tools for the District. Developing these in a manner that is consistent in quality and style will help brand HPD in the community. The seasonal program brochure will continue to be an important tool in providing both general communications about the District as well as marketing programs.
Communications Media
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HPD Website www.huntleyparks.org The Huntley Park District website is a very important communications tool for residents of the District and for others who may be interested in participating in HPD programs/events or visiting certain parks and facilities. Nearly 45% of the survey respondents identify the website as an effective resource for communications. The existing website home page provides news and upcoming events as the focus of the page, with links to current seasonal program brochures and several drop-down menus that provide links to general HPD background information as well as to programs, facilities, athletics, Stingray Bay Family Aquatic Center and Pinecrest Golf Club, which has its own unique website. Many of the links open specific pages from the seasonal program brochure, including the link to Stingray Bay and to other community organizations, where actual links to those agencies or groups may be more helpful. There is limited information on the parks, and some menus provide links without an explanation of the purpose of the link. For the resident, a website can provide significant detailed information about the District. For a visitor, it can act as a travel brochure. It is important that HPD provide a website that is easy to use, descriptive, and fun while offering quality branding of the District. Electronic Media There are a variety of online electronic media venues being utilized directly and indirectly by the Huntley Park District. HPD has two active Facebook pages where programs, news, and events are updated on a daily basis on one, and sports information is provided on the other. The District utilizes email blasts to inform program users of cancellations or conditions. Online program registration is available through the HPD website. Outside electronic media has grown in just the past year with two local organizations offering local news only through their online websites. The First Electric Newspaper provides daily news updates for Algonquin, Huntley, and Lake in the Hills and covered a public meeting during the visioning process for developing this Comprehensive Master Plan. Patch, described as your source for local knowledge you cant live without, recently expanded into the Huntley market and has presented a wide variety of articles about events and initiatives regarding the Huntley Park District, including an article about the comprehensive planning process. Almost 22% of the survey respondents identified email blasts as an effective resource, while less than 5% identified any other electronic media. Though these communications methods were not highly rated, electronic media will continue to grow in popularity as a means of communications for park and recreation agencies. HPDs daily updates on Facebook show a dedication to utilizing this media as a practical tool for keeping the community informed. The significant variety of articles on Patch show that HPD is looked upon as an important news source for the community. 172

Print Media The Northwest Herald and The Daily Herald are the two regional newspapers that, in addition to The Chicago Tribune and Sun Times, provide area residents with the best print news sources. The Huntley Journal is a free publication that is distributed to residents of Huntley but not to those areas within HPD boundaries that are outside of Huntley. Unfortunately, because distribution areas are either too limited or too regional in nature, it is difficult to utilize these publications for advertising purposes on a regular basis except for events that may be of regional interest or programs that are not offered in other communities. These newspapers are good venues for press releases relative to the District, and the Northwest Herald has blogs for each community. Both the Northwest Herald and Daily Herald are also available online.
MARKETING RECOMMENDATIONS
Effective communications leads to effective marketing that works toward informing people about HPD opportunities and, more importantly, influences people to join in. There are a variety of ways in which the Huntley Park District can inform and influence people; some of which are simply sales techniques, while others offer a sustained marketing approach through education and public relations. The following recommendations provide many of the various ways that HPD can expand on its marketing and communications program: Public Relations As defined by the Public Relations Society of America, Public relations helps an organization and its publics adapt mutually to each other. As such, public relations can take on a variety of forms that deal with policy direction, community involvement, public perception and awareness, social welfare, recognition, and public opinion. The 2010 Community Survey was a public relations tool that both garnered feedback from the public that is useful to HPD and showed the public that their attitudes and interests are important to HPD. Public relations recommendations include: Conduct community attitudes and interests surveys on a regular basis (every 5+/years) to keep abreast of changes in interests, satisfaction levels, and support for the District Conduct program evaluations at the end of all programs to determine satisfaction and interest in other similar/advanced programs Conduct monthly meetings that bring together representatives of all athletic organizations for the purposes of discussing common goals, opportunities, and concerns Conduct annual meetings with user groups from Stingray Bay, Pinecrest Golf Club, the fitness center, after-school programs, dance programs, Seedlings Preschool, and any other critical program focus areas Provide ongoing membership and active representation by Board and staff to a variety of local civic organizations, including the Lions Club, Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, Jaycees, Kiwanis, PTO/PTA, Historical Society, Senior Citizens Club, and other organizations where promotion of the mission and goals of the Huntley Park District can help build relationships Promote greater volunteerism within HPD and the community
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Present awards of recognitions annually to staff, volunteers, Huntley Parks Foundation members, coaches, and other individuals who make a difference in the community Board/staff develop, participate in and lead area bicycle rides, coffee get-togethers, park tours and other events that can promote the mission and goals of the District Develop staff and park/program user suggestion boxes online to promote thinking outside the box Provide on-going customer service training to all staff on the front line who have direct public contact, whether as a part of their job or through proximity in the parks and facilities Explore opportunities for staff to do presentations on parks and recreation topics for schools, civic organizations, clubs, etc. Work closely with community organizations to educate their members about the role of HPD, its accomplishments, and its future goals
Advertising Advertising can take on many forms and can, in some cases, be a revenue generator. Consider how a soft drink manufacturer pays for advertising on television or in print media, yet makes a profit selling licensed apparel with their logo amply displayed. For the Huntley Park District, external advertising tools may be somewhat limited due to a limited user base and, as described before, the regional nature of many traditional advertising mediums. But some external advertising, along with internal publications, can be used effectively by the District to promote programs and events, and to generally spread the word about HPD. Some advertising recommendations include: Utilize regional print media like the Northwest Herald and the Daily Herald to promote unique programs and events that may have a more regional appeal. Create banners for use on ball field outfield fences to promote new programs or programs of special interest without additional promotion Utilize advertising to promote programs that are in need of greater participation rather than those that are typically full Create small posters that can be placed in schools, municipal buildings, restaurants or other locations, including businesses in Lake in the Hills and Algonquin where additional interest in HPD programs is very viable Advertise in Lake in the Hills and Algonquin program guides and newsletters Advertise in District 158 Newsletter Distribute program/event flyers through the schools Develop all brochures, flyers, posters, and other print materials with a similar style and quality to promote branding on HPD that will be recognizable over time Consider providing HPD logo baseball caps, t-shirts, polo shirts, water bottles, etc. for public sale and for recognition awards as described under Public Relations Develop HPD promotional items, such as t-shirts, baseball caps and water bottles, for specific events such as Fallfest, Halloween Family Fun Day, etc. Replace marquee sign along Rt. 47 in Deicke Park Explore opportunities for advertising programs and services in Sun City publications
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Publicity Keeping news about the Huntley Park District visible in a positive manner is an important part of a successful marketing strategy. News releases, public service announcements, photographs, newsletters, and blogs are some of the ways that HPD can generate publicity for the District. Because HPD is within the Chicago media market area, finding and utilizing more localized media outlets is a critical need in developing a publicity campaign. Some possible ways to expand media relations include: Develop a listing of local print, broadcast, web and social media outlets for regular distribution of press releases, photographs and other announcements. Outlets may include, but not be limited to: o The Northwest Herald o The Daily Herald o Huntley Journal o Patch o First Electronic Newspaper o McHenry County Living o WZSR Star 105.5 FM o Huntleys Village Journal o LITH The Messenger o The Algonquin Citizen o District 158 Newsletter o Facebook o Twitter o Nixle Prepare and distribute press releases regularly to announce staff or Board news, new programs or services, plans for special events, etc. Work with the press to develop interesting articles that present other aspects of the Huntley Park District, or parks and recreation in general, that will educate the public about the agency behind the parks. Distribute captioned photographs of interest to print, web, and social media outlets Develop a biweekly/monthly blog about parks and recreation on The Northwest Herald website, with links through Facebook/Twitter and the HPD website Consider combining the two Facebook pages to provide a stronger single resource and the ability to cross-promote programs, events and other activities Utilize internal knowledge and interests to develop community service postings Develop public service announcements for radio broadcast when community issues that also affect parks and recreation are encountered Invite radio personalities to do on-air broadcasts at HPD facilities/events Develop student scholarship sponsorship programs for athletics, parks and recreation majors, etc.
Promotion Successful promotion of Huntley Park District events and recreation programs is a simple way to generate new users, maintain existing users, and develop collaborative initiatives that will benefit the community. The District has been successful with past promotions, and should take advantage of other opportunities that will get people involved. A few promotional ideas that can be considered include: 175

Attend and exhibit at the Annual Parenting Expo and Fun Fair in Crystal Lake to promote the Seedlings Preschool program as well as other HPD programs and services Use calendar opportunities to promote Fitness Center membership campaigns, including a New Years resolution campaign, a get-ready-for-summer campaign and a fall-into-fitness campaign. These opportunities could include free fitness assessments, membership discounts, or free months for new users. Encourage renewed annual membership in the Fitness Center by offering a discount for renewing prior to expiration Consider program discounts for multiple family members signing up for the same program, individuals signing up for a series of programs, or family members taking different programs during the exact same time period. Consider developing an internal scholarship program that offers HPD programs to underprivileged children at no cost Promote Pinecrest Golf Club on days/time periods that are typically light in round counts by developing incentives often used at group events. As an example, if Sunday afternoons are a typical slow period, have a closest-to-the-pin competition every Sunday afternoon for promotional prizes from the pro shop or restaurant Develop a birthday card incentive gift/coupon that is sent via email to program and facility users annually Focus additional promotional efforts on programs and park amenities/features that are often underutilized such as promoting the rental of the picnic shelters and the log cabin on non-holiday weekdays to businesses and organizations in the community
COMMUNICATIONS RECOMMENDATIONS
Huntley Park District Publications The Seasonal Program Brochure, flyers and newsletters produced by the District are very successful in informing the community about the activities, programs, events, and services provided by HPD. Some items to consider in the development of HPD publications include: Create a package of HPD publications that are consistent in quality and materials and offer a unique branding that becomes instantly identifiable as belonging to HPD Utilize quality paper stock that contrasts with ink color to provide highly readable and legible publications Provide more focus in the Seasonal Program Brochure on adult and senior programming to expand the understanding that the Huntley Park District is for all ages Utilize self-advertising in the Seasonal Program Brochure to encourage the use of park amenities such as picnic shelters, the log cabin, HHS tennis courts, etc.
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Huntley Park District Website While the HPD website is an important communications tool for the District, an enhanced website that offers more information, greater interaction, and quality graphics will be invaluable to the community. Enhancements to the website for consideration include: Redesign the website into an exciting and informative resource that provides features, articles and much greater information about HPD, including more detailed information on important events, profiles and other elements that will help market the Huntley Park District Design the home page to include breaking news items, but add other features that are more marketing focused Develop an interactive map of the District that allows users to click on a park or facility and be redirected to pages devoted to each o Develop descriptions of each park site and facility that describe the park, list amenities, and include links to other web pages for related program or rental information o Prepare high quality plan graphics for each facility and park property that illustrate the locations of all park facilities and amenities o Continually revise the parks and facilities descriptions to accurately reflect the amenities offered at each property as changes occur Develop a website specifically for Stingray Bay similar to Pinecrest website Utilize the website to present the District to the public by including articles on a variety of topics that can promote cross-interests Feature a park or facility each month that includes history, amenities, events, photos, recent improvements, planned improvements, and other anecdotal information Feature a recreation program each month that includes descriptions, ability levels, instructors, photos, and other information that may be of interest Feature a staff member, volunteer or Commissioner each month with profiles that include roles, interests and other information that puts a fun and positive face on the District Utilize the home page to advertise volunteer opportunities with the District Utilize the website home page to proactively market new programs and new schedules/added classes to encourage registration for those programs and schedules Include links to other agencys websites relative to the District, including Villages within the District, McHenry & Kane Counties, State agencies, schools, IPRA, NRPA, etc. Include links to the websites of organizations that partner with HPD Include links to Facebook, Twitter, Nixle, and other social networking programs used to inform residents of community news and events Develop a calendar of events that includes HPD events, Board meetings, facility opening/closing dates, specialty programs and other items of general community interest
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CHAPTER
12
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Land Acquisition
180
LAND ACQUISITION
As described in Chapter 2Community Profile, the area encompassed by the Huntley Park District is expected to continue significant growth over the next thirty years. This will likely bring residential, commercial and industrial development projects with their locations following the municipal comprehensive land use plans of the communities served by HPD. The location of future residential development is a key factor in determining where the District should focus its acquisition strategy. As residential development continues and the population grows, additional parks and open space lands will be required to meet the recreation needs of the public. While the residential developments, as they occur, can provide smaller neighborhood parks as a part of local development agreements, it is important to also consider the need for larger-scale community or regional parks that provide significant opportunities for active and passive recreation, park programming venues and scenic natural resource protection areas. As such, the neighborhood parks related to future residential development will be proposed and negotiated with developers as those projects are presented and are not an active component of the acquisition strategy that the Huntley Park District should initiate. Land that can protect natural resources, provide important linear linkages for bicycle and pedestrian trails, and large parcels suitable for development of major recreation facilities are important to the vitality of the community served by the Huntley Park District.
Existing & Future Land Use
In looking at the current development within the Huntley Park District boundary, development patterns over the last ten years and the location of land not yet developed, it is clear that future large-scale development will likely be completed based on market factors that preclude specific timing or location. Many large parcels may be planned as future residential developments as families decide to sell their land holdings or when estates are dissolved. The availability of these parcels provides developers with land to meet their market areas on a random schedule and in random areas rather than as a planned region. The central area of the Village of Huntley includes the oldest residential neighborhood in the community along with commercial properties and industrial lands. Here in the hub of the District, the road network and rail line are barriers that separate the District into fairly distinctive areas or quadrants.
SOUTHWEST QUADRANT
High While most of the residential development School during the 1990s and 2000s took place in the northeast, southeast and southwest quadrants of the District, only The Del Webb Sun City development, which takes up much of the southwest quadrant, can Sun City be considered built out. With no known plans for expansion and having an internal private recreation network, HPD involvement in developing park lands will be limited to areas west of Sun City along the Briar Hill Road corridor that runs from the Interstate 90 corridor north to Harmony Road, where it intersects just one mile west of the high school. Briar Hill Road Route 47 181
Harmony Road
LAND ACQUISITION
NORTHEAST QUADRANT
The northeast quadrant still has significant areas of infill development land available that, while adding to the general population of the District, will not significantly affect District land acquisition needs. Because the District has developed many of its neighborhood parks in this area, and the Village of Lake in the Hills has also developed parks here, there are few areas not already served by a park, even though undeveloped. Only the areas north of Ackman Road up to Foster Road have no development and will be in need of new parks as development occurs. One other area not served by an existing park is located in the Boulder Ridge Country Club development in Lake in the Hills. Should additional development within Lake in the Hills occur, it will be up to LITH whether neighborhood park lands will be developed by their own municipal recreation departments or given to HPD. LITHs Sunset Park provides a significant number of athletic venues for this part of the community.
Foster Road
Route 47
Ackman Road
Ackman Road
Sunset Park
SOUTHEAST QUADRANT
The southeast quadrant of the District includes a mix of commercial and industrial land near Huntleys village center, some older residential, newer residential development from the 1990s and 2000s, and somewhat significant blocks of open space/agricultural land. The Cider Grove development, located off the north side of Dundee Road near Kreutzer Road, is not completely developed and is slated to include a second neighborhood park if the planned subdivision is completed. Like the northeast quadrant, HPD has developed many of its neighborhood parks in this area, and the Village of Algonquin has also developed two parks here. One developed area not served by an existing neighborhood park is the area around the Terrace Hill Golf Course. Should additional development within Algonquin occur, it will be up the Village of Algonquin whether neighborhood park lands will be developed by their own municipal recreation departments or given to HPD. While there is some infill development land available, there are more significant tracts of land south of Kreutzer Road from behind the Route 47 Algonquin Road commercial areas east toward Boyer Road. While Terrace much of this agricultural Hill area may be considered wetland, there are enough Cider tracts of developable land Grove to accommodate new growth and the need for new parks. One element Kreutzer Road that is lacking in this area is an additional community park that provides greater recreation offerings and meets needs for athletic programming. 182 Route 47
LAND ACQUISITION
NORTHWEST QUADRANT
The northwest quadrant of the District is the area that is likely to incur the greatest future growth. Most of this area is open space and agricultural land, with the Talamore development, west of Route 47 and south of Ackman Road, the only real exception. There is additional residential development already planned for the area, however, along much of the east side of Coyne Station Road (ext.), from Hemmingsen to south of Ernest Road.
Hemmingsen Road Route 47 Coyne Station Road Ernesti Road AckmanRoad
Conservation Lands
While the Huntley Park District provides a Talamore significant amount of park land offering active and passive recreation opportunities, the McHenry County Conservation District and the Kane County Forest Preserve District may be better able to acquire and maintain large tracts of natural lands that should be protected from surrounding development. The Freeman Kame-Meagher Forest Preserve is just south of the District, but with adjacent open lands available for expansion north into the District. The Exner Marsh Conservation Area is within the HPD boundary and is virtually surrounded by development, most of which is residential. An additional area of conservation land is located just west of Coyne Station Road and provides an opportunity for HPD to acquire lands adjacent that could be used for a future nature center.
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LAND ACQUISITION
Strategy Development
This acquisition strategy focuses on six basic premises: 1. The competition for land will become more intense as the area continues to develop meaning that land appropriate for parks and open space will become less available and more costly. 2. CMAP population projections for the area indicate that the Huntley Park District population may increase by 75-85% over the next 30 years indicating a need to be proactive in anticipating future needs and acting prior to the realization of the need. 3. Existing privately owned lands that are used for recreation purposes should be considered for acquisition to the public domain as they become available, by either the McHenry County Conservation District, Kane County Forest Preserve District or by the Huntley Park District. 4. Natural areas should be added to the public domain to encourage environmental education and public access to open space. 5. While the Del Webb Sun City development provides its own recreation amenities and is nearing its capacity, residents of Sun City still utilize HPD parks and facilities and participate in programs and events offered by the District. Accessibility from Sun City to HPD parks, as well as greater accessibility in other areas of the community, is an important need that requires significant collaboration between a variety of agencies that serve the residents of the District. 6. The District should work closely with the Villages of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin to ensure that as new subdivisions are developed, adequate park land is set aside to serve residents, preserve natural areas, provide linkages to schools, and other parks and open space acreage.
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LAND ACQUISITION
It will be important for the District to take a pro-active approach to land acquisition that focuses on forming land acquisition agreements with property owners before they put the property on the market. This proactive approach will allow the District to potentially remove the competitive factors involved if the District were required to bid against developers, a scenario that will likely result in higher land prices. Identifying land acquisition areas for the Huntley Park District is based on a number of factors, including: Providing geographic coverage of the District with appropriately scaled parks and open space to meet the current and projected population areas within the District Expanding existing facilities to provide additional recreation amenities in existing parks or to develop access to natural areas Expanding the network of trails through the District Protecting natural resources, including forested areas, natural open space, and other key resources.
Huntley Park District Land Acquisition
While the neighborhood parks are mostly surrounded by residential properties or stormwater management areas, HPDs community parks Deicke, Warrington and Tomaso currently have open space lands adjacent that could be considered for expansion of those parks. Expansion of these parks can provide expanded athletics program areas and can provide viable alternatives for new major facilities in more centralized locations within the District.
PARK EXPANSION
EXISTING RECREATION LANDS
Properties that have historically been utilized for recreation purposes, whether public or private, may offer existing infrastructure or amenities that can be redeveloped at less cost than construction of new facilities and amenities. As lands used for recreation become available, HPD should consider redevelopment or turnkey opportunities. Community connectivity is an important feature in developing sustainable community parks and facilities. While HPD can develop trails within parks, partnership with the municipalities, schools, and developers is needed to truly plan for a trail network that links parks, schools, and other important venues. HPD should work with the Village of Huntley and other municipalities to include trail planning as a key part of all new projects developed in the District.
TRAIL DEVELOPMENT
FUTURE COMMUNITY PARK LANDS
The map on the following page identifies four target areas where the Huntley Park District should consider acquisition of open space as land becomes available. Specific properties are not identified, but rather general areas within which property will meet one or more of the factors described above. Within these areas are numerous land parcels that, separately or in tandem with other properties, can be considered key to providing appropriate geographic coverage of the Districts population now and in the future. These target areas are focused on land acquisition to meet needs for future community parks, as neighborhood parks will be provided through developer agreements. The community parks will serve as venues for athletics and major recreational facilities that may be needed in the future. 185
LAND ACQUISITION
4 2 3
Community Parks Service Areas

Huntley Park District Community Parks Lake in the Hills Community Parks Sun City Community Park Acquisition Target Areas
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LAND ACQUISITION
The biggest need in the southeast quad is a park that provides an additional venue for athletics. With Tomaso Sports Park and Warrington Park in Huntley and Sunset Park in Lake in the Hills providing the three major sports venues in the District, current residents in the southeast are served only by the neighborhood parks provided by HPD and the Village of Algonquin. Centered around CSD 158s Square Barn Campus, acquisition of a land in this area will meet both current and future needs as the area continues to develop through infill and new development in Kane County. Because of the overlap with Lake in the Hills and Algonquin in providing recreation on the east side, a community park venue provided by HPD will generate greater support by residents in those areas as well as good public relations for the District. With an existing population base already in place, future residential development likely and a lack of public recreation facilities in this area, consideration may also be given to locating future facilities, such as another recreation center or an aquatic facility, in this area as well.
TARGET AREA 1
TARGET AREA 2
This area represents the most likely growth area within the Huntley Park District. With Talamore being the first major development to locate on the northwest side of the District, and additional development already in planning stages just west of Talamore, the area will need athletics venues and other facilities to meet the needs of the growing population. Centered in the Coyne Station Road/Adamson Road area, there are many opportunities in this area for recreation development and for creating a network of trails that link parks, schools, and other important area venues. This area can also be considered for development of other operational and recreation facilities including a maintenance facility, field house, aquatics facility or other venues that will serve the growing population.
TARGET AREA 3
The presence of a large conservation area here provides a great opportunity for the District to collaborate in developing a nature center or consider lands adjacent to the conservation area for development. Acquisition of adjacent property will allow HPD to have greater control over site activities and still tie in to any trail development to utilize the conservation area for environmental education, interpretation, and habitat study. Over time, as residential development occurs in the area, additional active and passive recreation facilities and amenities will also be needed. This area along Route 47 north of Huntley village is a rolling area of farmlands with quarries located at the north end. The terrain offers a different feel from many other areas in the District and provides opportunities for active and passive recreation development. Quarry sites are often developed as recreation lands once their product it expended. While commercial development along Route 47 is likely to be a key future land use, HPD can consider this area for good access and unique development opportunities.
TARGET AREA 4
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CHAPTER
13
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Capital Improvement Prioritization
190
CAPITAL PRIORITIZATION
As described in Chapters 8 and 9, the recommendations are prioritized to provide a guide for future capital funding. The prioritization and the recommendations themselves have been developed in a manner that will allow flexibility in their interpretation and in their Implementation. First priority recommendations consist of projects that should be implemented within the next two years. The second priority recommendations should be implemented in a range of two to four years depending on conditions, trends, and funding opportunities. The third priority recommendations are those that should be completed sometime within the five-year planning period. Fourth priority items look beyond a fiveyear time frame and include some larger capital projects that should be developed when timing and funding opportunities are presented. The capital prioritization is presented in two forms that work together to provide both an overview and the specific improvements proposed. The first section lists the improvements/enhancements and associated costs by park or facility name, providing a site by site listing of proposed capital needs. The second section presents categories of proposed improvements for the parks and lists the parks where such improvements are needed by priority.
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PARK & FACILITY RECOMMENDATIONS

PARKS
BORHART FAMILY PARK 1 Fill/level athletic field turf areas 1 Recut edge and grade ball field infield 1 Reestablish turfgrasses throughout park 2 Utilize specialty paving in seating area 2 Add planted islands within seating areas 2 Add landscaping at park sign 2 Redesign/reshape berms & landscape areas 2 Edge playground area and planting beds 2 Sand & repaint shelter posts 3 Redesign/build pathways 3 Add paved aprons around benches 3 Provide soccer goals 3 Sealcoat parking lot 3 Rebuild/Expand playground COTTONTAIL PARK 1 Develop a new park master plan 1 Replace, expand and diversify playground equipment 1 Edge playground area and planting beds 1 Remove sand play area and expand/redesign seating area 1 Replace shelter roof and repaint surfaces 1 Remove picnic kiosks 1 Replace picnic tables and benches 1 Repair/repaint park sign 1 Reestablish channel and rip-rap bed 2 Consolidate planting areas and add landscape 2 Add landscaping at park sign 2 Add bicycle rack 2 Add naturalizing plantings as transition to wetland area/etc. 4 Add interpretive signs at natural area 4 Consider ornamental gazebo on west end DEICKE PARK 1 Redesign and consolidate directional signage 1 Redesign landscape at park sign/gates 1 Rebuild sand volleyball courts 1 Replace marquee sign on Rt.47 1 Remove dead trees/replace ornamental tree at ball field 1 Replace all picnic tables/benches 1 Replace roof on Martines shelter near ball field 2 Stabilize bank edges on pond 2 Add ornamental landscaping to screen utility panels 2 Add plantings between parking and north playground area 2 Add bicycle racks
192 $ 2,000 15,000 5,000 7,000 4,000 2,000 6,000 2,000 1,000 12,000 3,000 4,000 3,000 110,000 8,000 90,000 3,000 12,000 4,000 2,000 20,000 3,000 3,000 7,000 2,000 4,000 2,000 3,000 30,000 7,000 3,000 4,000 20,000 3,000 120,000 3,000 12,000 3,000 2,000 12,000

3 4 4 4
Replace picnic tables in picnic kiosks Add directional and interpretive signage Replace/upgrade basketball and ball field fencing Add historic-style lighting 6,000 10,000 45,000 75,000
KILEY PARK 1 Replace and add plantings in parking berm 1 Paint/repair toilet screen fence and add shade tree 1 Replace fencing mesh at ball field 1 Recut edge and grade ball field infield 2 Replace playground and expand tot lot area 2 Add shade trees at playground, basketball court & ball field 2 Add access paths to all amenities 2 Reshape planting bed edges for easier maintenance 3 Repair gazebo base concrete 4 Add naturalizing plantings as transition to wetland area/etc. OL TIMERS PARK 1 Develop a new park master plan 1 Replace, expand and diversify playground 1 Upgrade perimeter fencing and backstop/fencing 1 Extend perimeter fencing along north property line 1 Replace park sign and enhance entry landscape 1 Replace picnic tables and benches 1 Rebuild walkways/paths throughout park 1 Rebuild/pave parking lot 1 Provide ADA accessible paths to park amenities, benches, etc. 1 Add bicycle racks 1 Add permanent soccer goal(s) 1 Consider adding tennis courts to the park 2 Screen maintenance yard from park 2 Dispose of excess materials from maintenance yard 2 Add naturalizing plantings as transition to streambed/etc. PARISEK PARK 1 Replace dead/barren plantings 1 Add planted islands within seating areas 1 Utilize specialty paving in seating areas 2 Add permanent soccer goal 3 Rebuild/pave walkways throughout park 3 Replace bicycle rack 3 Provide direct paths to playground and bike rack 4 Replace, expand, and diversify playground 4 Add splash pad
2,000 2,000 8,000 15,000 90,000 4,000 5,000 5,000 1,000 4,000
$ 15,000 130,000 30,000 35,000 15,000 20,000 20,000 60,000 5,000 8,000 4,000 85,000 3,000 3,000 4,000
7,000 4,000 7,000 4,000 15,000 4,000 2,000 90,000 300,000
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RED HAWKS REST 1 Extend planting beds 1 Plant traffic corner areas 1 Replace dead/barren plantings 1 Add shade trees 1 Plant low-grow grasses/meadow 1 Add paved apron at bench 1 Add trash can RUTH FAMILY PARK 1 Program to eradicate weeds 1 Restripe parking lot 1 Paint/stain eaves on picnic shelter 1 Recut edge and grade ball field infield 1 Add shade trees behind the ball field 2 Resurface basketball court 2 Edge playground and sand play areas 2 Reshape planting berms and combine bed edges 3 Pave accessible path and aprons to all benches 3 Add access paths to all amenities 3 Replant area on south side of toilet 3 Eliminate sand play/add tot lot apparatus 4 Consider addition of splash pad TOMASO SPORTS PARK 1 Install playground 1 Construct toilet/concession building 2 Add overhead mesh between grouped ball fields 2 Install parking lot landscape 2 Install grass pavers in overflow parking area 2 Install shade trees in lawn areas behind backstops 2 Screen maintenance building 2 Install lights on athletic fields 2 Add bike racks 3 Add Tomaso Park sign at Talamore pedestrian entry 3 Pave all paths/trails 4 Revisit grades on Ball field E 4 Construct Field Turf fields TURES PARK 1 Program to eradicate weeds 1 Repair water fountain 1 Repair/replace warped picnic table 1 Add access paths to all park amenities 1 Pruning & replacement of trees 1 New plantings at park sign and rules sign areas
$ 4,000 1,000 1,000 4,000 3,000 1,000 1,000 5,000 1,000 1,000 15,000 3,000 4,000 2,000 5,000 7,000 4,000 2,000 35,000 200,000
$ 100,000 300,000 50,000 15,000 75,000 4,000 3,000 300,000 8,000 7,000 70,000 50,000 4,000,000 $ 5,000 1,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000
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1 1 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 4
Edge playground and sand play areas Recut edge and grade ball field infield Resurface basketball court Add shade trees at playground, basketball court, and ball field Sealcoat parking lot Add permanent soccer goal(s) Reshape/combine planting bed edges Replace playground and expand tot lot area Repair shelter base concrete Consider addition of splash pad $ 3,000 15,000 4,000 4,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 85,000 2,000 200,000 2,000 3,000 8,000 18,000 160,000 100,000 4,000 85,000 40,000 20,000 12,000 200,000 10,000 5,000 3,000 1,000 15,000 3,000 12,000 2,000 90,000
WARRINGTON PARK 1 Replace plant materials in parking lot beds 1 Add accessible path to playground near Stingray Bay 2 ADA paths to ball field bleachers and soccer fields 2 Add 18-hole disc golf course 2 Add lights to ball fields at Stingray Bay 3 Add new playground at REC ball fields 3 Add shade tree grove at REC ball fields 3 Consider adding tennis courts 3 Repair/reseal parking lots and Lois Lane 3 Increase shelter area parking 3 Stabilize pond edges and create a no-mow buffer zone 4 Build concession/toilet/storage building 4 Add second park sign at Rt.47 and Mill Street WEISS PARK 1 Program to eradicate weeds 1 Edge playground and planting bed mulch areas 1 Sand/paint gazebo posts 2 Recut edge and grade ball field infield surface 2 Sealcoat parking lot 3 Rebuild/pave paths 3 Add permanent soccer goal 3 Replace playground and tot lot
FACILITIES
PINECREST GOLF CLUB 1 Hole by Hole Improvements 1 New irrigation system/deep well/pump station 1 New maintenance lift for equipment 1 Rebuild bridge on #1 2 Fairway turf conversion (annual budget) 2 Landscape improvements at hole markers, bridges, etc. 4 Cart storage area canopy & electrical upgrade
$ 30,000 1,500,000 5,000 3,000 50,000 50,000 300,000
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DEICKE RECREATION CENTER 1 Clean & paint all areas 1 Renovate/upgrade kitchen area 1 Upgrade flooring throughout 1 Upgrade window treatments in event/meeting spaces 1 Install alternative lighting in event/meeting spaces 1 Install audio/visual system in event/meeting spaces 1 Install audio system in multi-purpose space 1 Stock/provide flexible meeting/event furnishings and dcor 1 Reconfigure parking for ADA compliance DEICKE LOG CABIN 1 Replace picnic tables with all-wooden tables 1 Fill toilet pit and seal outhouse structure 1 Add portable toilets with fencing and landscape along trail 1 Provide directional signage near playground and cabin 1 Add interpretive signage and photos inside the cabin STINGRAY BAY 1 Add a new playground within the existing fence line 2 Add sound system improvements 3 Add a half-pipe water slide/active water play structure 3 Add climbing wall for teens/adults 3 Add passive thermal solar heating system, etc. REC CENTER 1 Add enclosed offices and cubicle spaces to the Locust Room 2 Redevelop courtyard 2 Redesign Mill Street recreation lobby 2 Art/photography exhibits 3 Redevelop Miss Connies Playground/Naturegrounds 4 Phase in rooftop wind/solar components SUN VALLEY FARM 1 Design covers for use on materials bins 3 Remove sun porch from homestead 3 Restore clapboard siding and cedar shake roof to homestead 3 Preserve/restore original interior finishes 3 Demolish garage building 3 Preserve/restore outbuildings 3 Acquire 1800s furnishings and farm equipment 3 Rebuild smokehouse foundation
$ 15,000 1,500 120,000 5,000 4,000 4,000 4,000 5,000 5,000 $ 15,000 3,000 3,000 2,000 3,000 $ 100,000 12,000 250,000 50,000 150,000 $ 25,000 120,000 8,000 25,000 120,000 150,000 $ 25,000 10,000 250,000 250,000 10,000 150,000 100,000 20,000
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PRIORITIZED IMPROVEMENTS
The following list presents categories of proposed improvements for the parks, and lists the parks where such improvements are needed by priority. The #1 listings are in order by priority. Other future prioritized items are listed alphabetically. The facility needs improvements are not included in this section because of the unique nature of those improvements that are not common to many properties.
PLAYGROUND REPLACEMENT / ADDITIONS

1 1 1 1 2 Tomaso Sports Park Cottontail Park Ol Timers Park Warrington Park Kiley Park Borhart Family Park Parisek Park Ruth Family Park Tures Park Warrington Park Weiss Park Borhart Family Park Kiley Park Tures Park Tomaso Sports Park Warrington Park Weiss Park Deicke Park Tomaso Sports Park
3 3 3 3 3 3
1 1 1
BALL FIELD IMPROVEMENTS
2 2 2 4 4
TENNIS ADDITION 1 Ol Timers Park 3 Warrington Park BASKETBALL IMPROVEMENTS 2 Ruth Family Park 2 Tures Park 2 Weiss Park 4 Deicke Park SOCCER ADDITIONS/IMPROVEMENTS
1 2 2 Ol Timers Park Parisek Park Tures Park 3 Borhart Family Park 3 Weiss Park
VOLLEYBALL IMPROVEMENTS 1 Ol Timers Park 1 Deicke Park

197
DISC GOLF ADDITION 2 Warrington Park PARKING IMPROVEMENTS 1 Ol Timers Park 1 Ruth Family Park 2 Tomaso Sports Park 2 Tures Park 2 Weiss Park 3 Borhart Family Park 3 Warrington Park TRAIL/WALKWAY IMPROVEMENTS 1 Ol Timers Park 1 Tures Park 2 Kiley Park 2 Parisek Park 2 Warrington Park 3 Borhart Family Park 3 Parisek Park 3 Ruth Family Park 3 Weiss Park LANDSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS 1 Parisek Park 1 Red Hawks Rest 1 Deicke Park 1 Warrington Park 1 Kiley Park 1 Ruth Family Park 1 Tures Park 2 Borhart Family Park 2 Cottontail Park 2 Kiley Park 2 Ol Timers Park 2 Ruth Family Park 2 Tomaso Sports Park 2 Tures Park 3 Ruth Family Park 3 Warrington Park BICYCLE RACKS 1 Ol Timers Park 2 Cottontail Park 2 Deicke Park 2 Tomaso Sports Park 3 Parisek Park
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SIGNAGE 1 Cottontail Park 1 Ol Timers Park 1 Deicke Park 3 Tomaso Sports Park 4 Deicke Park 4 Warrington Park SEATING AREA FEATURE IMPROVEMENTS 1 Parisek Park 1 Cottontail Park 2 Borhart Family Park BENCH/PICNIC TABLE REPLACEMENT 1 Deicke Park 1 Ol Timers Park 1 Tures Park 2 Oak Knoll Park 3 Highview Park PICNIC SHELTER/GAZEBO ADDITIONS/IMPROVEMENTS 1 Cottontail Park 1 Deicke Park 1 Ruth Family Park 2 Borhart Family Park 2 Deicke Park 3 Kiley Park 3 Tures Park 4 Cottontail Park INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS 1 Cottontail Park (RipRap Channel) 1 Ol Timers Park (Perimeter Fencing) 2 Deicke Park (Pond Bank Stabilization) 3 Warrinton Park (Pond Bank Stabilization) 4 Deicke Park (Park Lighting) MISCELLANEOUS IMPROVEMENTS 1 Tomaso Sports Park (Concession/Toilet Building) 4 Tomaso Sports Park (Field Turf) 4 Warrington Park (Concession/Toilet Building)
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Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Appendices
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APPENDIX A SOURCES
Developing a Comprehensive Master Plan entails significant research of information both broad and specific. The listing below includes sources outside the Huntley Park District that provided information that was pertinent to the planning process. Thank you to each of the organizations, agencies, businesses and individuals for the use of data and background materials used in the preparation of this document. National Recreation & Park Association Illinois Park & Recreation Association Illinois Association of Park Districts Illinois Department of Natural Resources Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning U.S. Census Bureau University of Illinois, Office of Recreation & Park Resources Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association The Northwest Herald First Electric Newspaper Huntley Patch Sun City Community Association Consolidated School District 158 McHenry County Conservation District Kane County Forest Preserve District Village of Huntley Huntley Area Public Library Huntley Fire Protection District Grafton Township Village of Lake in the Hills Village of Algonquin Village of Lake Zurich City of McHenry City of Woodstock Bartlett Park District Belvedere Park District Cary Park District DeKalb Park District Dundee Township Park District Rolling Meadows Park District Roselle Park District Streamwood Park District St. Charles Park District Sycamore Park District Wauconda Park District Zillow Real Estate Loopnet Commercial Real Estate 55Places.com Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce Centegra Health Bridge Readex Research 203
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APPENDIX B 2010 COMMUNITY SURVEY
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APPENDIX C COMMUNITY SURVEY COMMENTS

Please use the space below to provide any additional comments regarding the Huntley Park District that will assist in planning for the future. If your comments are in regard to a specific question in this survey, please make reference to the question number. I would recommend public/private partnerships for any new facilities development. No one wants tax increases for these types of programs. Also, why not work more closely with schools for programs. We live at the far end of the Huntley District borderline and it is not convenient to visit parks and rec center. Recently retired though so we might start using more facilities and programs. Please plan activities that cater to 2 working parent families & all age-ranges. Tumbling classes need to be offered to 5-7 year olds. I have not been involved but all of the Huntley Park facilities I have driven by are in good shape. Would like to be informed of volunteer opportunities. Maintain cleanliness, safety, and upgrade of your facility, and if you could add more programs and improve your facility. Thank you! Would love if there was an indoor pool. We would love an indoor swimming pool in Huntley. Right now the only way to swim is to join an expensive health club. Need more police presence at parks to handle the drug problem we have with kids that hang out during and after park hours. More sidewalks around the schools in Reed Road so kids can walk safely to school. Thank you! I appreciate that your prices for programs remain fair. You are all doing a great job. We like to watch our grandchildren sports games. Some of your parking lots are too far away from the fields. Like at Tomaso Sports Park and Warrington. Question 4--Need bike path along Rt. 47 and my major road going through Huntley, to get kids off street to make it safer for them. We have not started a family yet so it is hard to predict what our needs and usage will be. But I am excited about Huntley's interest in all these items and look forward to enjoying the amenities when the family (children) enter our lives. I am a working mom who would like to see more times available for children's programs!
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Needs outdoor winter activities (snowshoes, snow boarding). Would like to have all playgrounds with soft rubber surfacing from recycled tires. Drinking fountains and bench pads at Tomaso. Upgrade fitness center, equipment, studios to compete with Lifetime and Healthbridge. Offer afternoon fitness classes. Parisek Park is a mess -- please upgrade and maintain! We feel the H. Park Dist. programs have been a wonderful asset to the community, we have been here for 7 years and use the programs offered on a regular basis. The older kids, preteen and up, have nowhere to go in Huntley. We have no movie theater, arcade, etc. Skateboarding is such a big sport around here we really would love a skate park in Huntley. We have enough soccer fields and playgrounds. Something for bigger kids to keep them out of trouble! Had a 2008 Pool pass for 4. Will never waste the $ again with the overcrowding at the pool. Non pass holders/non residents should not be allowed in until holders/residents have at least 2-3 hours of pool time. Land acquisition should be absolutely last thing on your list. Also, I see you did not mention traffic through Huntley. Why not? It is a major problem. Crossing Rt. 47 on bikes? Bike lanes on Rt. 47? We would like a dog park and more bike paths! Thank you. Athletic fields, schedule additional outdoor insect spraying May through September in parks. It became difficult to use the facilities (parks) this year. Thank you. Deicke Park needs restrooms by the north end playground by the cabin. Do not raise tax assessment. I'm quite satisfied with the Huntley Park District. My only real suggestion is to make the Stingray pool an indoor facility. Question #12: You need indoor facility (bigger) for basketball leagues (kids/adults). #10: New year round swimming pool would be nice (indoor). #11: Senior day care program would be nice (none in area). Senior bus trips would duplicate programs offered by Sun City. Attendance at those are way down (economy issues), non-productive on attendance/revenue. #4) We live in Del Web and are in our 50s. We would like entertainment and activities for our activities age group. #7) My daughter would prefer the park district but attends Lifetime Fitness because the exercise facilities close too early during the week and weekend.
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An outdoor ice ring or two would be great - maybe at one or two parks throughout Huntley. I grew up in Arlington Heights & there were 3 free outdoor rinks that I can think of. It's so important to get the kids outside even in the winter. I think LITH has one too! Remember seniors 65+ programs! I would like to see the number and variety of programs offered to preschoolers (3-5 yrs) increase. I feel like it is lacking especially in the area of large motor activity. Tomaso needs more bathrooms! Clean up website -- too many old classes. Understand you need to keep a reference of them, but confusing to end user. Not all households have a stay at home parent, need to cater to families that both parents work -- more evening and weekend athletic/program opportunities. Also get some air conditioning in the gym! We have wonderful facilities, but the P.O. has raised rental rates so the average resident can't afford them. Had my daughter's baptism in 2005 at Deicke Park community room - $75 whole day. Now, it's $150 for only 4 hours. More needs to be done to insure the quality of all programs. The park district is fabulous! Add lighting to all, or most used, baseball fields, Incl. girls softball field(s). Add a free standing concession stand at both stingray & Tomaso baseball fields. May be a money maker especially during season & summer tournament play. I would love to switch from Lifetime Fitness to your facility. However, this is what holds me back: 1) Day care -- very limited hours. 2) Classes -- not difficult enough, not good times (only in mornings) and no dance (hip hop, for example). Deicke Park is a great place to go. Please keep and maintain for generations to come. Put concessions for lighting at baseball fields. I think that there should be a stoplight at Mills Street and 47. There are lots of kids who live on the other side of 47 and now they are going to have to walk across four lanes of traffic to get to the water park and use the facilities. I feel this is very dangerous for them. 90 years old -- limited in recreation activities. We would love to see racquetball courts. In re: to question 4 - like pedestrian trails. Living in Sun City is great but we are trapped here. There is no way to get to town and use the existing bike/pedestrian trails other than risk our lives on 47. Why not a path from Sun City across the creek to Sting Ray Bay & therefore access to Deicke park & downtown Huntley.
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I am sorry this survey should be mailed to someone who participates in the park program. I did join the senior club but never received any information from them regarding meetings, outing, or anything else, I do not use the park facilities. As you can see my participation in Huntley Park activities is extremely limited. I will however, support any effects to acquire new land for future use and expansion, in addition to improving or adding to existing facilities. Thank you. Due to our present economy costs need to be kept minimal, yet giving as good service and availability to all, as possible. I don't use the park very often, but I feel an excellent park district is important for the community in general. New Deicke Park Discovery area is excellent! Would love to have biking trails and walking paths! Better parking for group picnics needed. We have a wonderful park district in Huntley, IL. Keep up the great work. We have twin grandchildren that live nearby. They are only 1 1/2 years old but we have taken them to Deicke Park quite a few times this summer. We also walk all the trails at Deicke, Tomaso and Old Timers quite a bit. The new children's play area in Deicke Park is more than fantastic, just to sit and see the children enjoy this park is a delight. Thank you! #6) I didn't think Deicke Park could get any nicer than it already was, but then the new children's play area was added. It is wonderful! Thought was even given to the adults who are supervising the children. The park board even planned something for everyone at Stingray Bay. We love taking our grandkids there. The new golf club at Pinecrest is a great addition to our community too. I'm glad to find, through the survey, that the park district is looking and planning ahead. Sun City provides all of our needs at the moment so we don't use the park district facilities. Keep taxes down. Not worth anything to me without. Do not want to pay for this. Cross country ski trail in the winter. Cross country ski lessons. I only use Stingray Park with grandchildren and Del Web facilities, sorry. The parks are great. An indoor pool at Stingray Park would be great. The Sun City pool has limited facilities for kids. I would like to see more senior dances. I love to dance, but they only have clubs, we need open dancing. Thank you for the survey; however, I'm an older adult and I'm reduced to walking and 212

working out in the pool. I've read your bulletin and feel that more programs are needed for the community. Enjoy picnic area. Future planning should consider and plan a high priority on nature preserves. This town is growing so quickly and there has been a very low importance placed on this issue. It would help to beautify out town as well as many other learning experiences for children and adults. 6, 11, Preschool is very expensive compared to other neighborhood park districts. 8, No good or age appropriate music and gymnastics offerings. Only very few to select from. I'm all for completing, improving, expanding bike and pedestrian paths. Get people outdoors, make it safe and pave it. I train for triathlons and it would be great to keep it close to home. Bike path with landscape plan would be used by many people -- now currently using Crystal Lake and Schaumening paths. We are thankful for your good work to build into the community! After school programs/classes in schools immediately following the school day are great for families -- I'd love to see more of these opportunities for our children and focus on the quality of the program. There aren't many options. I'd rather sign my daughter up for an after school class than have her go to after school care. Expanding the bike/walking/running paths so that they connect through Huntley neighborhood to the REC Center would be a great improvement to the community and ultimately encourage more visits to Deicke Park. I think we need a SAFE way to cross over (or under) Route 47 especially now that it is widening. Neighborhood parks are less than average in terms of appeal, amenities, and user friendliness. Deicke Park is wonderful (A+), but the neighborhood parks need work. They need trees and more of a landscape plan as well as amenities. From question 12, our neighbors and my family really would like a park in the Cider Grove subdivision. There is no park within walking distance. 6. Parks -- the park by the library has restrooms but they are never open! Question 9: I do look at the seasonal brochure, either nothing interests me or cost is too high. I also work retail - so it's hard sometimes to sign for a program that goes for several weeks or nights a week. Also we live west of the high school - not in Del Webb & traffic is terrible. We find ways to avoid town all together. We are very happy with this park district. Very organized, great programs & dedicated volunteers! 3 Oaks Rec area by Crystal Lake is beyond anything we have. I would like to see if we could get our park district to work with Crystal Lake so we could use their facility since we are neighbors. Many parents didn't like AAA baseball organization. Specifically coaches and director of AAA. Some seemed to want to win at all costs. We live in LITH and thought you had to live in Huntley to use Huntley programs. 213

You are doing a good job just need to expand some programs and make them easier to get to from area D on your map. Question 6. Stingray Beach is nice but is a bit expensive for a family each visit. Also, the hours on the weekends. Families with young children like to do activities before nap time. We need an indoor pool, especially for use by the high school. We need to maintain open space for recreation/family time. We need more innovative programs, such as salsa/hip hop dance, instead of traditional ballroom. Increase your reputation/organization and support of baseball team and coaches. I think all of the parks in our area are nice, but during summer (also spring and fall) they could be mowed a bit more and garbage collected because teens have been knocking over cans. Bike paths that go places where residents go. A bike path from I90 North along Route 47 would be great. Connect the dots, no bike paths to nowhere! I rented the pavilion at Hilltop for the last 4 years for a family reunion and very pleased and will rent again for 2011. Our family loves Deicke Park. Classes weren't offered enough times/day for me working full time days. Would like to see different price structure for Stingray Bay (i.e., I chaperone my kids, but do not swim -- I shouldn't have to pay for a swim pass just to be the extra eyes!) Would like to see a youth boy's volleyball program and youth golf (under 17) pass for Pinecrest. Extend bike path on Algonquin Road from Huntley into Lake in the Hills going past the church & bellchase. We have been in area for 16 years. Now that kids are older, they seem to be in that inbetween age of many programs. Too many programs and LITH has the same ones, and my tax dollars are going to both. One out of every 5 people have either lost their jobs or have a significantly lower job. The unemployment numbers do not take into account those who fell off the rolls or who were self employed and cannot get out of the box with what you have and be honest. We moved here from Naperville, IL. There parks and rec programs were amazing! An indoor pool would be the one thing I would really like to see. The fitness center could replace padding on machines that have tape on them. The tape starts to peel and then sticks to you. We should have our own indoor pool. Would be great for the entire community. Am willing to support financially. Have teen (12-18 yrs) flag football or Lacrosse. 214

I hope they make a pool by Sunset Park in LITH. We have used and will continue to use programs and facilities of the Huntley Park District. We have been very happy with everything. I would love to see a year round indoor pool pass offered. I am looking for a place to swim for exercise. Stingray Bay Center is too far for our kids to ride their bikes and not safe to cross Rt. 47 and Main St. Sunset Park would be a better area for all the kids in this area. Great facilities and look forward to bringing my kids in the future. Huntley Park District is Top's. Parks are usually very well kept and clean! In the past 9 years we have lived here, it has been wonderful to see the growth and progress that Huntley is making. I love the new Discovery Playground at Deicke Park. I would like to see playground completed at Tomaso Sports Complex. The programs and services provided are very diverse and interesting. However, I feel the cost is often prohibitive to my family. We do enjoy the free offerings though. Think about partnering with local PTA's for programs! With so many families now having financial issues & 2 working parents it would be helpful to lower fees (for a period of time) & offer more evening & weekend programs. Keep up the good work! Until the economy regains stability, refrain from any increases in taxes. I had been using the fitness room on a regular basis until Rt. 47 was so torn up, I gave up my membership. It takes me 20 minutes one way so I decided to use my home treadmill and weights. It is just too inconvenient with the road construction. The fitness center is nice and almost people needed. Danny and Judy are wonderful and I will miss the interaction with them. We are seniors but our family uses your facilities. Need to have food vendor at Tomaso Park and more shaded areas!
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2011
HUNTLEY PARK DISTRICT COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN
2011 COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN
prepared for
Huntley Park District 12015 Mill Street Huntley, Illinois 60142 847.669.3180
prepared by
Bonestroo 1860 West Winchester Road Suite 106 Libertyville, Illinois 60048 847.816.1631
BONESTROO 2011
June 2011
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Dr. William Awe . President Jerry Nepermann . Vice President Susan Dunlap . Commissioner Jim Blasky . Commissioner Paul LaFleur . Commissioner
EXECUTIVE STAFF
Thom Palmer . Executive Director Christine Howatt . Finance Director Paul Ostrander . Parks Director Debbie Kraus . Recreation Director Gary Zierer . Facilities Director Mike Yackle . Director of Golf
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION EXECUTIVE SUMMARY PARKS & RECREATION COMMUNITY PROFILE COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS DISTRICT PROFILE & OPERATIONS CLASSIFICATION OF PARKS COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT PARK & FACILITY EVALUATION PARK ASSESSMENT
CHAPTER 8 CHAPTER 9 CHAPTER 7 CHAPTER 6 CHAPTER 5 CHAPTER 4 CHAPTER 3 CHAPTER 2 CHAPTER 1
1 3 9 17 21 53 67 87 105 117 147 159 169 179 189 201
FACILITY ASSESSMENT RECREATION PROGRAMS MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS LAND ACQUISITION CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PRIORITIZATION APPENDICES SOURCES 2010 COMMUNITY SURVEY SURVEY COMMENTS
CHAPTER 13 CHAPTER 12 CHAPTER 11 CHAPTER 10
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Introduction

After ten years of growth that saw the development of ten new parks, the construction of a new aquatics facility, acquisition and enhancement of a golf course, opening of a recreation center and significant expansion of programs and staff, the Huntley Park Districts 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan comes at exactly the right time to provide a review of what has taken place and provide direction on whats next. With growth slowed during the current economic decline, HPD is poised to face the future utilizing this document as a guide. Initiated in the summer of 2010, the comprehensive planning process included a diverse strategic visioning phase with the administration of a community survey and meetings with user groups, residents, stakeholders, HPD staff and the Board of Commissioners. As one of most important aspects in the development of a Comprehensive Master Plan, an inclusive visioning process promotes a sense of pride and responsibility in the HPD community. The quality of parks, facilities and programs offered by the HPD is very good, as quality development and diversification of programs defined the District during its period of growth. Park design direction included landscape and design standards that created additional maintenance needs. Maintaining quality parks and facilities requires a proactive approach that HPD does well. HPD programs offerings continue to expand, and new opportunities for collaborative programming are available. As a region that is still likely to see more future growth, developing a good land acquisition strategy is very important to the District. HPDs acquisition and park development strategy will need to include neighborhood parks as new housing subdivisions are planned along with larger tracts of land in those growth areas where community parks and new facilities can be developed to meet the needs of new residents. The Huntley Park Districts 2011Comprehensive Master Plan has been written to provide innovative ideas and recommendations that provide both a global perspective and a local focus.
ES
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Executive Summary
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Huntley Park Districts 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan is presented utilizing a series of chapters that provide a detailed look at the District and the community that it serves. This provides an overview of what the master planning document contains. The Comprehensive Master Plan is designed to be a guide for the District in making operational, capital improvement and philosophical decisions over the next five years and beyond.
MASTER PLANNING
It is well known that parks and recreation facilities offer many benefits to a community. The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), and various other professional associations representing the construction, planning, real estate, and health care industries have published papers that espouse these benefits. Improved health, environmental protection, open space preservation and increased property values are just some of the benefits identified. As in many aspects of life in the United States, there are trends that shape park and recreation planning. Many of these trends are due to demographic shifts and lifestyle changes, but others play on such things as increased environmental awareness and on economics that affect the funding of leisure time activities. This chapter describes the benefits of parks and recreation, and presents some of the nationwide trends that may be applicable to the Huntley Park District.
CHAPTER 1 PARKS AND RECREATION
Understanding the history, culture and traditions of a community plays a key role in planning for the future, as these are underlying principles that help shape a community as do its people. This chapter presents a brief overview of the community based on its geography, demographics and history. Because the Huntley Park District includes areas within multiple municipal jurisdictions, the chapter focuses on the people living in the area rather than on the municipalities. This information provides an understanding of the community that allows the formulation of viable recommendations for park and recreation programs, amenities and services.
CHAPTER 2 COMMUNITY PROFILE
Encouraging user groups, residents, stakeholders and staff in planning for parks and recreation promotes a sense of community pride and responsibility. The Huntley Park District shares in a philosophy of including various points of view to develop a vision for future planning efforts that represent a variety of interests. This chapter describes the various methods used to garner the recommendations and opinions of the public, user groups, organizations and stakeholders with whom HPD partners in providing services and facilities. The chapter presents the findings that came from these efforts, including the public workshop, the 2010 Community Survey and stakeholder/ focus group meetings. The findings of visioning meetings with HPD staff and the Board of Commissioners provide an inside view of the District.
CHAPTER 3 COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
CHAPTER 4 HPD PROFILE & OPERATIONS
Each park and recreation agency has a unique style and character that come from its geography, history, governance, operations and the cultural diversity of its population. This chapter provides an overview of the Huntley Park District that looks at the organizational structure of the agency, its history and the partnerships that HPD has developed with other agencies, organizations and businesses that work with HPD toward the common good of the community. This overview also looks at a variety of topics regarding the day to day functioning of the District; focusing on a few specific areas where opportunities exist for improved services. Volunteerism, maintenance, training, collaboration, and administrative topics are discussed, with a series of recommendations presented for modifying, tracking, upgrading, or collaborating in ways to simplify operations and allow staff efforts to focus appropriately. These recommendations are considered suggested guidelines that can assist the District in providing great services to the community.
CHAPTER 5 CLASSIFICATION OF PARKS
There are a variety of different types of parks within any park system that serve various functions within a community. Each of these types of park serves a distinct geographical base that ranges from a few blocks surrounding a mini-park or playground to several miles for parks that offer amenities that are unique to a region. The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) has developed a classification system that can be used as a base to describe most types of parks. These standards can be modified to address a specific agency and the unique types of parks that an agency offers. This chapter describes the various classifications of parks and facilities in the Huntley Park District along with a listing of parks falling within each classification. Included are overviews of recreation facilities and amenities offered by the Village of Lake in the Hills, Village of Algonquin, Consolidated School District #158 and Del Webbs Sun City development. Maps are provided that illustrate the services area of the parks and the overall service coverage provided to the community.
Comparing park and recreation agencies provides an understanding of how well an agency provides amenities and facilities for its residents compared with other agencies. The rationale behind this comparison is that a localized comparison offers a more accurate analysis of the needs and deficiencies of an agency. This chapter provides a comparison of the Huntley Park District to seventeen other park and recreation agencies in the region, providing quantitative comparison of many of the more common elements found within parks in this region. Because the Villages of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin have built parks within HPD boundaries, a comparison that combines the three agencys amenity offerings is also presented. Conclusions are offered that look at this comparison with respect to public needs.
CHAPTER 6 COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
CHAPTER 7 PARK & FACILITY EVALUATION
One of the most important steps in the comprehensive planning process is the inventory and assessment of the existing land, building and site improvements owned and operated by the park and recreation agency. An on-site evaluation of existing parks and facilities provides the basis for formulating recommendations for improvements to each park and facility. This chapter describes the process used for site and facility evaluations. The chapter also presents a series of recommendations for park and facility improvements that are common throughout the Huntley Park District, as well as new facilities that should be considered. These recommendations include consideration for future design and capital improvements to the parks and facilities, including ways to create a branding of the agency as well as quality and safety improvements that should be implemented District-wide.
CHAPTER 8 PARK ASSESSMENT
The chapter includes the assessments of each individual park as developed during the onsite evaluation of each property. Each park assessment includes an aerial photo image of the park, a brief overall description of the site, discussions regarding the individual amenities and features of each park, photographs of the parks and recommendations for improvements that are specific to each park site. Survey results, community visioning and discussions with HPD Staff and Commissioners also factor into the recommendations for park improvements. These recommendations are prioritized in a manner that will allow HPD to implement them over a multi-year process. Flexibility is built into the recommendations to provide for unforeseen circumstances and for opportunities that present themselves during the course of implementation.
CHAPTER 9 FACILITY ASSESSMENT
The chapter includes the assessments of key HPD facilities as developed during the on-site evaluation of the facility properties. Each facility assessment includes a brief overall description of the facility, discussions regarding the individual amenities and features of each facility, a series of photographs documenting existing conditions, and recommendations for improvements that are specific to each facility. Survey results, community visioning and discussions with HPD Staff and Commissioners also factor into the recommendations for facility improvements. These recommendations are presented to allow implementation to be flexible to provide for unforeseen circumstances and for opportunities that present themselves during the course of implementation.
CHAPTER 10 RECREATION PROGRAMS
Providing an overview of recreation program offerings is another important step in the master planning process. This chapter includes a description of the types of programs provided by HPD, as well as a series of recommendations for program assessment, collaboration and expansion. These recommendations are strategically based on the community survey results, community visioning, and discussions with HPD Staff and Commissioners. 5
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
CHAPTER 11 MARKETING
In order to maintain resident interest in HPD, a general evaluation of current marketing efforts and recommendations for new marketing initiatives are presented in this chapter. Community outreach, print and broadcast media, HPD publications and other communitywide opportunities are identified and discussed for implementing a comprehensive program to attract residents and visitors to HPD. Opportunities for marketing the District outside the boundaries of the District are also considered.
CHAPTER 12 LAND ACQUISITION
The McHenry County/Kane County area presents future opportunities for growth once the economic turnaround is complete and new land development projects are initiated. The Huntley Park District understands that the current economy also presents an opportunity to acquire land when values are not at a premium. This chapter discusses a strategy for land identification, use and development now and as growth continues. Recommendations are presented for acquisition of land for neighborhood parks, future athletics complexes and for new facilities that may benefit from specific land locations or conditions.
CHAPTER 13 CAPITAL PRIORITIZATION
Based on the park and facility recommendations found in Chapters 8 & 9, a listing of capital improvements and associated budgets are presented as a guide for determining future capital expenditures. The projects are given first, second, third and fourth priority ratings. While most of the recommendations are small to medium-scale capital projects, there are some larger-scale projects included that should be considered and implemented as funding becomes available and needs become more evident. Additional projects will be included that may be considered as maintenance or as capital projects should their scope warrant such designation. The projects are presented by park/facility and by overall priority.
APPENDICES A SOURCES
A listing of information sources that provided information that was utilized in the preparation of the Comprehensive Master Plan.
B 2010 COMMUNITY SURVEY
A copy of the 2010 Community Survey as was sent to 2,000 households within the Huntley Park District.
C COMMUNITY SURVEY COMMENTS
The final question on the 2010 Community Survey asked respondents for any additional comments about the Huntley Park District. The 105 comments received are presented in this Appendix.
CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Parks & Recreation
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PARKS & RECREATION

THE BENEFITS OF PARKS AND RECREATION
The Benefits are Endless. As the motto of the National Recreation and Park Association, this statement is meant to exemplify that parks and recreation provides benefits that transcend many aspects of our lives. When issues such as health, property values, environmental quality and alternative modes of transportation are discussed, these benefits are evident. Studies and surveys by local organizations throughout the country, as well as national organizations like the National Association of Realtors and the National Association of Home Builders, have illustrated the importance of parks, trails and open space to homebuyers and businesses alike. Residential properties in close proximity to public open space have been shown to have significantly greater value. Parks and open space near commercial and industrial properties are often considered a free employee benefit. Providing opportunities that allow people to walk or bike rather than use their cars promotes a cleaner environment. Park and recreation venues and programs also promote healthy lifestyles, providing opportunities to fight against obesity, heart disease and a variety of other health concerns. Meetings with local residents, stakeholders and park users show that there is a general community awareness of the benefits of parks and recreation, and the feeling that the Huntley Park District provides them well.
PARK & RECREATION TRENDS
As the Huntley Park District prioritizes capital and operational needs, and determines the direction of its programs and services, it is important to look at some of the park and recreation trends that may play a role in the District. These regional and national trends can affect future program and facility development. Some of the current trends, and what they mean to HPD, are described below.
By 2030 it is expected that 20% of the U.S. population will be considered a senior. Though most park and recreation agencies have significant programs for their senior constituency, and many provide dedicated venues for these activities, this surge in the senior population will not be met with current offerings. Studies also suggest that the aging baby boomer generation may not be as interested in the types of activities and programs that are typically offered today. Many more of this generation expects to be cycling, golfing, running, and participating in active sports well into their senior years. Activities that stimulate the mind are equally as important as physical activities. Cognitive health refers to maintaining and improving mental skills such as learning, memory, decision-making and planning. Studies have proven that fit seniors live longer, remain in their homes longer and participate more fully in community life.
AGING POPULATION
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PARKS & RECREATION

Never has it been more important for park and recreation agencies to enhance programming for this growing population. Partnerships with hospitals, senior centers and community organizations to promote organized health, recreation, fitness programs, therapeutic recreation and mental fitness will allow the senior population to maintain and improve their quality of life. The Huntley Park District encompasses Del Webbs Sun City in its entirety. Sun City, a community for those 55 years of age and over, has its own recreation programs, facilities and amenities that are for the exclusive use of their residents. Because the Sun City development is nearly built out, the growth in this population group will come from the other areas of the community as the Sun City population will largely remain the same. While the demographics of the other areas of the District are dominated by younger families, many of the older neighborhood areas of Huntley and the rural surrounds do have a vibrant senior population. HPD offers numerous programs for active adults, and has many Sun City residents utilize their programs and facilities. But as the senior population continues to grow and remain active, additional program types will be required that offer greater active, cognitive and motor components. HPD will need to explore greater collaboration with area healthcare agencies and with Sun City to develop and promote new programs.
Park and recreation agencies have jumped on the technology bandwagon in a big way in the last few years and in a variety of ways. Well beyond doing email blasts or simply having a website, Facebook, Twitter and Nixle are now common venues for interaction between park and recreation agencies and their constituents. These electronic venues can be used for a variety of things, from helping to fill programs in danger of cancellation to informing athletic teams of weather delays. They can also be used to develop a more spontaneous teen program offering or to encourage volunteerism. They get people involved. Live online program registration makes the process easier for both staff and program users. And offering WiFi provides a service to the community that can bring more people into recreation facilities. The Huntley Park District posts daily updates to its followers on Facebook, and is updating numerous operational services and programs to advance the District in the community.
COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGIES
RESOURCE TECHNOLOGIES
Other types of technological advances being embraced by the park and recreation industry are operations related. New irrigation technology reduces water loss. Artificial turf technologies eliminate the need for irrigation. Solar and wind technologies can reduce traditional outsourced energy needs, while simple things like motion sensors can offer safe and efficient lighting control. New work-order tracking systems can make maintenance scheduling and implementation more efficient for crews and eliminate waste. And, of course, hybrid vehicle technologies are becoming more available as car manufacturers compete for the green market share.
12
PARKS & RECREATION

The Huntley Park District currently utilizes some of the simpler energy-saving systems, and staff members have expressed operational interest in solar, wind and irrigation technologies that can make a real difference. As costs come down and advances are made, HPD can consider hybrid vehicles and equipment to expand its green, stewardship role in the community.
Providing greater amounts of shade in parks is a trend that is a direct result of the climb in the number of cases of skin carcinoma and melanoma that come from overexposure to the harmful UV rays of the sun. Trees, shelters, canopies, awnings and other means of providing shade are being used in parks throughout the country as escapes from direct sunlight. Shade is especially important over, or near, amenities that are used for extended periods of time. Playgrounds, benches, spectator seating, team benches and other similar uses where people are exposed for long periods of time are being shaded. In other situations, like tennis or basketball courts, shaded areas are provided adjacent to the courts to provide a place to escape for short breaks. Adding more shade in parks is a healthy trend for the 21st century. While the Huntley Park District has been planting trees in many parks, this is an initiative that the District needs to develop further as most playgrounds, benches and other use areas were designed with little shade consideration given. Athletic field areas also need shade trees or structures adjacent to the backstops for players and fans to escape the sun.
SHADE
STEWARDSHIP OF THE LAND
Preservation and stewardship of environmentally sensitive areas are falling more and more to park and recreation agencies. All public lands, including parks, conservation areas, open space, trails and greenways, lakes, streams, and wetlands may offer significant fish and wildlife habitat that require a philosophy of protection and sustainability. Often times park and recreation agencies possessing unique natural resources must take extraordinary measures to protect fragile resource areas for their community, especially in communities where limited natural areas exist. This includes the need to limit or restrict access to some areas where particularly sensitive ecological systems are at work. But it also means providing access to natural areas where educational opportunities exist. Equally important and related to this stewardship role is the need to provide programs to the public that promote a greater understanding of our natural systems as well as an awareness of global environmental issues. Environmental programming is one of the fastest growing types of programs offered by park and recreation agencies. Whether classroom based activities or interpretive trails, environmental programs can provide a way to secure support for the philosophical approaches needed for stewardship.
13
PARKS & RECREATION

The Huntley Park District has limited areas of open space that are within their control, as many of the wetland areas are under municipal, private or association management. The acquisition of land as open space should be considered as future growth continues. Red Hawks Rest, Deicke Park and Cottontail Park could be used as venues for environmental programs, while collaborative efforts with the McHenry County Conservation District and the Kane County Forest Preserve District will provide expanded opportunities for the Huntley Park District to promote stewardship through environmental education.
STAYCATIONING
The economic downturn in the last few years caused most people to reassess their budgets, including the way in which they participate in recreation activities. Instead of travelling to far off lands or even to the regional major attractions, many people, especially families, have decided to spend their vacation time at home. The staycation includes looking at local venues, programs and events as a way to enjoy the community in which people live. Neighborhood or community festivals offer a way for people to enjoy culturally diverse experiences. People participating in no-cost activities like cycling or hiking may be interested in programs or events that revolve around these modes. Staycationing provides park and recreation agencies with an opportunity to reach out to more residents of their community and to promote the local economy. The parks, festivals and programs offered by the Huntley Park District are important components of the staycation that can be successfully marketed to the local and surrounding communities.
FAMILY HEALTH INTERESTS
Families are engaging in life-long fitness and nutrition programs that are geared toward maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Healthy living is fundamental in improving ones physical and emotional health and social well being. Parks and recreation services play a vital role in encouraging people to develop and maintain healthy lifestyles by providing the programs, the facilities and the protected environment that allow people to be physically and socially active. A study by the National Recreation and Park Association found that, in terms of overall health, local park and recreation users reported fewer visits to a physician for purposes other than check-ups than did non-park users, even when controlling for the effects of age, income, education level, health status and other possible influences. Active people have longer life spans and are at less risk of developing diseases. Physical activity has also been shown to help people become more emotionally and mentally fit. Park and recreation agencies provide programs that families can enjoy together. These shared activities reduce family stress and allow families to share time together in constructive and healthy ways that are conducive to strengthening family bonds. In this way, the agencies foster the positive emotional and social impacts that create strong families.
14
PARKS & RECREATION

The Huntley Park District provides a variety of programs for all members of the family, as well as family-oriented activities. There are many opportunities for health and wellness programs and activities that HPD can consider in helping to develop life-long park and recreation users.
OUTDOOR FITNESS FACILITIES
Another problem that has come with the economic slowdown is that individual spending on recreation and entertainment has declined, even though people are staying home during their vacation periods. Household funds are going to the essentials, with any leftovers being distributed toward a variety of other dicretionary expenditures. Participation in recreation is one of those budgetary items that are often considered discretionary. Physical inactivity, poor eating habits and the costs of healthcare have caused a decline in the health of our citizens that mirrors the economy. While paying for the use of a health club has deterred many individuals from maintaining their health, park and recreation agencies are starting to revisit the fitness station craze that was so popular in the 1980s and early 90s, but with a somewhat more high-tech approach. Trailside exercise stations and outdoor gymnasiums have begun sprouting up that provide a free work-out on state-of-the-art fitness equipment that is made for the outdoors. Outdoor equipment that is available includes many of the same elements found in a fitness club, including fitness bikes, presses, ellipticals, stairs, rowing, and a variety of other stations that can be spaced along a fitness trail or developed in a single outdoor gym location. These stations do not have electronics that measure distance, calories or repetitions, but they are significantly more high-tech than the old inclined wooden beam. The Huntley Park District can consider the viability of outdoor fitness stations as a means of encouraging greater health and wellness, appealing to a new group of park users, and promoting its Fitness Center during inclimate weather seasons.
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16
CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Community Profile
18
COMMUNITY PROFILE
The Huntley Park District has an attribute that is somewhat unique in that its borders include most of the Village of Huntley, plus parts of two communities that have parks departments within their village governments Lake in the Hills and Algonquin. All three communities experienced significant growth and expansion during the 1990s and 2000s and have major development areas within HPD. The boundaries of the District encompass parts of four other zip codes as well, but those areas are rural farm lands with no development that plays into understanding the profile of the community served by the District.
Area History
The history of the area dates back to the 1700s when the Pottawatomie, a migrating group of Algonquin-speaking peoples, came south from the upper Great Lakes as they evaded the Iroquois tribes. By the late 1700s the Pottawatomie had established their farming, hunting and fishing rights in the northern Illinois region from the Fox River to Lake Michigan. Their knowledge of local culture and their ability as negotiators allowed both trade relations and cultural exchange with the French traders to develop. With the westward migration of settlers of English descent came a different relationship with the native cultures, and the Pottawatomie, along with other native communities, were driven further westward; signing away their land rights and abandoning their villages as they went. Black Hawk challenged the unfairness of the treaties signed with the U.S. government, and Pottawatomie groups participated on both sides of the resulting war. With the defeat of Black Hawks Sac and Fox nations by U.S. troops in 1832, all Pottawatomie groups, regardless of their allegiances during the war, were forced to move west of the Mississippi. By 1837 all Pottawatomie were gone from the Fox Valley region. Following the Black Hawk War, white settlers began to homestead in many areas west of Chicago. Kane and McHenry Counties were established in 1836 and 1837 respectively, and the first settlers to this area arrived from New England almost immediately thereafter. Some of those early settlers were from Grafton, New Hampshire, and thus Grafton Township was founded in 1850. Algonquins village along the Fox River was originally laid out in 1836, making it the oldest village in McHenry County. Thomas Stillwell Huntley and his family had arrived to the area in 1846; acquiring significant land holdings first to the north of the current Village of Huntley and later south. The region saw growth as a farm community that was especially suited to livestock due to low-lying areas that were not conducive to grain production. Dairy farming began to thrive, and in the 1850s the railroad arrived to transport dairy products, with separate rail lines passing through Algonquin and Huntleys Grove; where a general store, village park, post office and other services were developed when the trains arrived. The railroad access brought residents of Chicago out to enjoy the rural areas, with many establishing summer homes in the region. Over time, Algonquin, along the banks of the Fox River, became a resort community while the areas of Lake in the Hills and Huntley maintained their rural farm character and even experienced some hardship as farms defaulted and ownership changed. 19
COMMUNITY PROFILE
The Village of Huntley was incorporated in 1872, followed in 1890 by the Village of Algonquin. It wasnt until 1952 that Lake in the Hills incorporated as a governing body; just two years after a homeowners association had been formed to deal with road maintenance. During that entire time, the area slowly grew, but still maintained its agricultural character. While growth in Algonquin exploded in the 1980s, it was in the 1990s that the areas west of Randall Road began to experience the urban sprawl of Chicago, as residential, commercial and industrial development began to encroach on the rural character. The residential neighborhoods on the west side of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin ran into the Village of Huntleys eastward expansion. The transformation of the Huntley Schools from one elementary school and one high school in 1996 to grow into Consolidated School District 158 that has five elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school on three campuses is probably one of the primary ways in which the growth of the area is in evidence. While there were several sizeable residential subdivisions planned and developed, none compared to the Del Webb Sun City community developed on the west side of Route 47 between I-90 on the south and the Village of Huntley on the north. With almost six thousand homes for residents over 55 years of age, Sun City developed as a community that had no impact on the schools and only some impact on the Huntley Park District as Sun City has its own significant recreational offerings.
Today, growth has slowed due to the economic slowdown, with the population of the Huntley Park District approximately 40,000, including all of Sun City, most of the rest of the Village of Huntley and residential neighborhoods in Lake in the Hills and Algonquin. The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) has developed a 2040 Forecast of Population, Households and Employment that has some staggering projections for the region. The population of the Village of Huntley is projected to grow from just over 24,000 today to nearly 59,000 by 2040; more than doubling the current population. Lake in the Hills and Algonquin are both projected to grow by over 15,000 residents, many of whom may live within the boundaries of the Huntley Park District. Should these projections hold true, the resident population of the District could grow by 30-35,000 over the next thirty years. While the 2010 U.S. Census information is not yet available in order to develop a completely accurate view of the demographics, it is clear that the population within the boundary of the District is culturally diverse, but is still over 90% of European ancestry. Consolidated School District 158 has stated that there are students representing 27 different languages in the schools. Both the Latino population of the District and the Asian population are anticipated to be in the 3-4% range. The average annual household income is projected to be just over $110,000.
Population
20
CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Community Visioning Process
22

OVERVIEW
The success of a public agency depends on the support of those who are served by the agency; whether their interests are general in nature or specific to the interests in which they are involved. The Huntley Park District has offered a variety of ways to engage the community, including the general public, user groups and stakeholders who collaborate with or have a vested interest in the District. HPD has solicited the views and needs of many individuals and groups in developing a future plan for the District, and is poised to undertake additional efforts to work with stakeholders and user groups in the future. The planning vision that comes from this involvement provides the basis for many of the goals and objectives in this Comprehensive Master Plan which will act to guide the District over the next five years and beyond. Representatives of key focus groups, stakeholders and members of the public participated in a series of meetings and interviews to gather their observations of the District and information specific to their needs. The HPD staff and Board members were also interviewed to gain an understanding of the District from within, as well as their vision and goals for the future. These meetings and interviews provided meaningful input to the planning process and were used to help develop a Community Survey that was later used to gain a scientific understanding of the interests and needs of the community.
The general public was given a variety of opportunities to provide input to the District during the planning process. Two community workshops were held at the Cosman Cultural Center as a means of providing the public with an open forum where they could express their views and needs. On a few occasions during the on-site assessments of the parks, informal discussions with park users took place. A Community Survey was conducted with 2,000 surveys sent to random households within the borders of the Huntley Park District. Just under 21% of the survey recipients responded. An analysis of the survey results is included herein.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
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The Huntley Park District conducted a Community Survey during the fall of 2010 that consisted of 13 questions intended to understand the interests and opinions of residents regarding the District. An opportunity for general comments was also provided. On October 19th, the survey was mailed to 2,000 District households; approximately 17% of the total households in the District. The 2,000 households were selected at random by a third party not involved in the HPD comprehensive planning process to ensure a completely random selection. Within a few days after the surveys were mailed, each household receiving a survey was called utilizing an electronic voice message that encouraged recipients to complete the survey. One week later, 140 surveys had been completed and returned. After two weeks, 250 surveys had been returned. This response rate resulted in HPD deciding not to initiate any reminder mailings. On November 29th, just under six weeks after mailing, the survey was closed. Of the 2,000 households selected, 413 chose to participate. With a response rate of nearly 21%, HPD exceeded its goal of 400/20% returns. The 413 returns translate to a statistical margin of error of +4.7% at a confidence level of 95%. The survey was designed to obtain statistically valid results from households throughout the District. Survey questions were prepared based on a number of influencing factors, including topics developed during stakeholder meetings, staff information needs, Park Board interests and current trends in park and recreation planning. There were questions that determined the demographic mix of the respondents, questions that ascertained current use of park facilities and programs by respondents and questions that asked the respondents to present and prioritize their interests in future HPD facilities/programs/services. Several questions allowed an other response that presented an opportunity for respondents to provide answers not included in the optional answers given. This, along with a general question asking for additional comments, provided a forum for respondents to give open input to HPD. Many of the questions pertaining to current use and future preferences contained the option of providing a response that was understood to mean that the respondent had no first-hand knowledge to be able to formulate a measured response, or had no opinion regarding the question. In presenting the survey results, those responses that provide a measurable response to a specific question are used to show qualitative and quantitative answers to the questions. Where appropriate, the percentages of non-measurable responses are presented for clarification purposes. A copy of the survey instrument as distributed to the public, and additional comments regarding the District provided by the respondents, can be found in Appendix B and Appendix C respectively.
COMMUNITY SURVEY
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DEMOGRAPHICS
1. Referencing the adjacent Huntley Park District map, in which area do you reside? The location of respondents helps develop an understanding of how the opinions of Park District programs and facilities might differ from one region of the community to another, and how needs might vary by region as well. When answers to questions are similar from one region to another, this illustrates that the respondents tend to look at the District offerings as a whole rather than through focusing on the area in which they live. In general, the survey respondents showed consistently high satisfaction and support of the Park District. For the purposes of this question the District was divided into four (4) quadrants utilizing major roadways as the division lines. Algonquin Road and the combined Harmony Road/Main street corridors are the east-west routes used to define the areas, while Illinois Route 47 is the north-south route that was used. The percentages shown represent the distribution of responses received. While the 2010 U.S. Census information is not available to confirm the exact distribution of the population within the District, the response percentages seem to be relatively accurate given the development patterns in each quadrant. Area A is mostly rural farm land, with the partially-built Talamore community the only major housing development in the area. Area B is the most developed part of the District, and includes that area of Lake in the Hills that falls within the HPD boundary. Area C is the location of the Del Webb Sun City 55+ community. Area D is a combination of rural and developed areas, and includes the Huntley village center area and that area of Algonquin that falls within the HPD boundary.
6.7%
38.6% 28.5%
26.2%
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2. What is your age and gender? The age and gender of respondents is important in understanding the types of user participating in the survey, their current use of HPD facilities and their interests for future facilities and programs. With over 47% of those surveyed falling into the 25-44 age bracket, it is likely that young families in the District are well-represented. These age brackets were especially well-represented in the northeast and southeast areas of the District, where most of the growth has occurred in the past 10-15 years. These respondents, as well as those in the 45-54 age bracket, are especially supportive of new initiatives for the District. Of those respondents in the 65+ age bracket, 78% live in the southwest quadrant where the Sun City development is located. Older respondents, some on fixed incomes, are less willing to support additional funding for athletics and active recreation initiatives, although the support for passive pursuits and environmental/cultural interests are in evidence. The 45-64 bracket represents the end of the baby boom generation. As some, but not a significant number, of the 55-64 respondents live in the southwest, it can be assumed that the baby boomers, if they remain in their existing neighborhoods, will cause a future need to expand on facilities and programs that appeal to the active adult crowd. GENDER OF SURVEY RESPONDENTS
50.6% 47.0%
Male Female No Answer
2.4%
AGE OF SURVEY RESPONDENTS
35.2%
17.6% 13.3%
15-19 20-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+
12.4% 20.7%
0.3%
0.6%
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3. Please indicate the number of people in your household in each age and gender group. This provides a look at the household demographics being represented by the respondent to the survey, and combined with Question 2, provides a look at the typical family unit represented by each respondent. Approximately 55% of the households responding have children living at home; with 38% in the elementary and middle school age brackets. Of the 226 households with children, 17 have children only of high school age, while 50 have children only not yet of school age. These figures match well with those households having adults from 25-54, with the 35-44 age bracket the highest population age group represented. But the family unit represented by this survey coupled with the demographic profile for the entire community makes it clear that HPD has a large number of young families whose recreational needs will continue to play a large role in determining HPD program and facilities needs now and in the future.
HOUSEHOLD AGE & GENDER PROFILE
140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0
Male Female
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PARKS, FACILITIES & PROGRAMS
4. During normal operation season for each facility, how often do you and members of your household use the following Huntley Park District parks and facilities? Neighborhood parks are visited at least a few times each year by 79% of the respondents, and once per month or more by at least 46%. Trails are used by over 57% of the respondents; a number that could increase if an overall community plan requiring linked corridors in new development were in place. Just under 50% of the respondents enjoy the Stingray Bay Family Aquatic Center, with 10% using the pool weekly during its operational season. These numbers are artificially low due to Algonquin residents ability to use the Village of Algonquin pool, and residents of Sun City having two outdoor and one indoor pool at their disposal. REC Center users are represented by 44% of the respondents, with 16% enjoying the facilities at least once per month. These numbers are relatively good when considering that Lake in the Hills, Algonquin and Sun City each have alternate venues for their residents to enjoy. Given its focus on one type of sport, Pinecrest Golf Clubs annual use rate of 40% is very high, especially in consideration of the availability of numerous other courses within a few miles. The athletic facility use is also significant due, in part, to the number of sports teams utilizing the fields each year, with 19% of the respondent households using the facilities on a monthly basis. PARK & FACILITY USE
Neighborhood Parks Athletic Facilities Bike/Pedestrian Trails Stingray Bay Aquatic Center Pinecrest Golf Club REC Center 0% 20% 40% 60% 80%100%
3+ Times/Week 1-2 Times/Week 2-3 Times/Month Once/Month A Few Times/Year
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Looking at how geographic location affects the use of parks and facilities yields results both obvious and interesting. Here are some of the cross-tabulations that are most applicable:
Over 56% of respondents in the northwest (Area A on Question 1) use the neighborhood parks at least once each month, and 49% on a weekly basis; numbers that are high given that there is only one park in that quadrant. Respondents in the southwest (Area C on Question 1) use HPD parks the least, as Sun City has its own parks and facilities. HPD park access requires travel of over 2 miles from Sun City even though they are in very close proximity at their nearest points. Twenty-two percent of residents in the southwest quadrant use HPD parks at least monthly. The area where people most use their parks annually are in the southeast (Area D on Question 1), where 88% of the respondents visiting their neighborhood parks each year. This area includes Ol Timers Park in an urban setting that generates significant use. Other neighborhood parks are located in some of the newer subdivisions, and Algonquin also has two neighborhood parks in this area. Younger adults, especially those with school-age children, use the parks significantly more than any other age group responding to the survey. The number of park visits decreases with each age category. This is not unusual as adults tend to use the parks less as children grow. Geographic use of the trails is very consistent except for the Sun City area, where HPD and Village trails are not readily available. Pinecrest Golf Club is most-used by those respondents living in the Sun City quadrant, with 44% enjoying golf there annually, and 19% coming at least monthly. Residents of this quadrant also golf at Pinecrest on a weekly basis more than twice as much as residents of other areas. Considering that Sun City has its own 18-hole course, and the number of other courses available to Sun City residents, their patronage of Pinecrest is significant. Respondents from the northeast and southeast quadrants (Areas B & D on Question 1) utilize athletic fields the most, with over 24% using these facilities at least monthly. This is likely a combination of use of neighborhood park fields and the community park fields located on the west side. Households with children under 14 years of age represent the highest users of athletic fields. REC Center use is consistent regardless of which quadrant respondents live in. Even 40% of those in Sun City use the REC Center annually. Family respondents living in the growth areas on the east side utilize Stingray Bay Family Aquatic Center 20% more than other respondents.
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5. On an annual basis, how many Huntley Park District recreation programs does your household participate in? Fifty-seven percent of all respondents and their families participate in some type of HPD programming in any given year, with 14% participating in 4 or more programs per year. These numbers are significant given that those residents living in Sun City, or within the village limits of Algonquin and Lake in the Hills, have alternative programs available to them through their communities. This illustrates the importance of HPD programming to the residents of the District community and shows that many residents have developed high levels of active participation with HPD. Of those not participating in HPD programming, a substantial number simply do not have enough free time to allow participation (see Question 7). It should be noted, however, that use of other recreation providers is also a significant reason that the program numbers are not even higher. This plays right into the fact that Sun City, Algonquin and Lake in the Hills each offer their own programs, with 60% of Sun City residents citing that as a primary reason for their lack of participation. Interestingly enough, however, 42% of Sun City residents do utilize HPD programs, with 8% participating in more than 4 programs annually. The highest levels of program participation came from those in the northeast and southeast quadrants, where many young families live. ANNUAL PROGRAM PARTICIPATION
43.0%
10 or more 8-9 6-7 4-5 1-3 None
10.3%
43.0%
1.7% 0.5%
1.5%
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6. Please indicate your level of satisfaction with the Huntley Park District for those areas in which you are familiar. FACILITIES Respondents satisfaction with facilities is extremely high, with Pinecrest Golf Club, Pinecrest Restaurant and Stingray Bay Aquatic Center each garnering over 80% Excellent/Good responses, and Deicke Park over 90%. The REC Center received a combined Excellent/Good response of nearly 79%, while the Fitness Center facility received just over 53%. Tomaso Sports Park received a combined Excellent/Good response of nearly 69%. Geographic ratings were fairly consistent for Pinecrest Golf Club, the REC Center and Deicke Park. Those living in the Sun City quadrant gave the Pinecrest Restaurant the highest ratings, while those same respondents gave the Fitness Center and Tomaso Sports Park the lowest ratings. The family users living in the northeast and southeast quadrants gave Stingray Bay the highest Excellent/Good ratings, while Sun City respondents gave Stingray Bay the highest percentage of Excellent ratings, which is a tribute to the District given the quality of the aquatic facilities in Sun City.
SATISFACTION WITH FACILITIES
Deicke Park Fitness Center Pinecrest Golf Club Pinecrest Restaurant REC Center Stingray Bay Aquatic Center Tomaso Sports Park 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
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PARKS Survey respondents expressed a high level of satisfaction with the Parks, with all categories receiving combined Excellent/Good ratings of over 75%, and with greater than 25% Excellent in each category. The playgrounds received the highest Excellent rating with almost 33%, while Safety received the highest combined Excellent/Good rating with over 86%. Amenities and Cleanliness of the parks received the lowest marks, though still over 75% positive. Comparing geographic location of respondents with park satisfaction, there is consistent satisfaction level throughout the District with most of the categories. Those living in the southeast quadrant consistently ranked each category the highest, sometimes expressing higher ratings of 10 points or more over the other areas. Respondents from the northwest quadrant gave park amenities the lowest mark, which could be a result of the unfinished amenities planned for Tomaso Sports Park. SATISFACTION WITH PARKS
Quality Maintenance Playgrounds Cleanliness Safety Amenities 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
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ATHLETIC FIELDS The overall satisfaction level with the athletic fields is generally positive, with the highest number of respondents in most categories giving a Good rating. Field Availability, Quality and Safety all received high marks of over 70% Excellent/Good. Only Spectator Seating and Restrooms received less than a 45% Excellent/Good combined response, and also received the highest number of Fair/Poor responses. The spectator seating at the ball fields is fairly typical for a park and recreation agency. The lack of seating at soccer/football fields could be a factor as could the need for shade to escape the hot sun. The restroom ratings likely are lower from those respondents that frequent fields where portable toilets are used. Shade over these facilities can make them more palatable as well. The turf condition rating, with 60% Excellent/Good, is relatively high considering some of the issues with weeds and uneven surfaces; though the competition fields are much better than those in some of the neighborhood parks. One interesting cross-tabulation finding is that those in the southwest Sun City quadrant consistently gave each category their lowest ratings when the residents there are probably the least likely to utilize the fields. SATISFACTION WITH ATHLETIC FIELDS
Availability Lighting Maintenance Parking Quality Restrooms Safety Spectator seating Turf 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
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PROGRAMS The Before/After School programs received the highest level of combined Excellent/Good responses, with over 82%. Seedlings Preschool received the highest level of Excellent responses at 34% and the second highest level of combined Excellent/Good responses, with over 77%. Athletics and Youth programs each garnered over 76% Excellent/Good ratings. Only one program group fell below the 50% positive response rate, that being Programs for Persons with Disabilities, which are a joint effort with the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association. Teen programs, which are some of the most difficult to provide, garnered a 53% combined rating. All the other program groups received ratings between 60% and 70%. Following the trends of some other questions, respondents in the northeast and southeast gave the best marks to programs geared toward children of all ages, while those in the southwest from Sun City particularly liked the Adult/Senior programs. The most consistent rating geographically was for Events. SATISFACTION WITH PROGRAMS
Adult/Senior Athletics Before/After School Day Camps Fitness & Wellness For Persons w/Disabilities Pinecrest Golf Seedlings Preschool Special Events Swim Teen Youth 0%
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20%
40%
60%
80% 100%
COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Huntley Park District communications services received relatively good marks from respondents. The professionalism of staff shines through with Customer Service by Staff receiving a nearly 84% combined Excellent/Good rating. Park District Publications, including the Seasonal Program Brochure and a variety of flyers, also scored highly with nearly 80%. This was followed closely by Availability of Program Information and Program Registration, with 77% and 72% respectively. The HPD Website received the lowest response in this category, but still with a positive response rate of 68%. The lowest ratings on the website came from the youngest respondents, those likely more technically inclined and interested in more interactive formats.
SATISFACTION WITH COMMUNICATIONS
Huntley Park District Publications Customer Service by Staff Availability of Program Information Program Registration Huntleyparks.org Website 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
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7. What are the reasons that you and members of your household do not use your parks and facilities, or participate in programs offered by HPD, more often? The overwhelming response to this question was a simple lack of time to enjoy the parks and programs, which is the typical response to this question. An additional 139 respondents identified that they use other recreation providers, which is understanable given that Sun City, the Village of Algonquin and the Village of Lake in the Hills each have recreation programs and facilities to offer their residents, and there are private recreation providers in the area that also compete for users. Issues dealing with the schedule of programs ranked the third highest reason for non-participation, an issue that was heard from other sources as well. Costs and fees associated with programs was the fourth most cited reason, especially for families, and especially in the current economy. The response that ability levels do not meet needs is an important concern as park and recreation agencies try to promote lifelong users of parks and recreation services. The do not know what is offered response is not a significant number, yet with the highly-rated Seasonal Program Brochure and other means of communications about programs and parks available, this level of response seems unwarranted. Some of the other responses identified a communications concern regarding some residents of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin who reside within the boundaries of HPD being unaware that HPD parks and services were available for their use. PARTICIPATION DETERRENTS
Not enough time Use other area recreation providers Scheduled when we can not participate Costs/fees are too high Nothing matches our interests Location Do not know what is offered Ability levels do not meet needs Access/Transportation Classes are full Safety concerns Customer service by staff Special needs not met Language barrier ADA Accessibility Other
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50
100
150
200

8. Do you or members of your household regularly participate in recreation activities offered by any of the following organizations?
Nearly 3/4 of the respondents identified other agencies and organizations that they frequent either in addition to or in lieu of HPD facilities and programs. This is certainly not surprising given that the Villages of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin offer recreation programs, facilities and services, Sun City has a wide variety of facilities, programs and clubs, and there are a number of golf courses and private fitness studios in the area. Nearly 25% of the respondents identified Sun City as an alternative provider, with the health club at Centegra nearly as many. While many individuals and families participate in school and church programs or belong to organizations that complement HPD, the number of possible HPD patrons utilizing other competing entities is something that needs to be considered in determining ways to bring those residents into the HPD family. USE OF ALTERNATIVE RECREATION PROVIDERS
Del Webb's Sun City Centegra Health Bridge Churches Other area golf courses Neighboring public park agencies Public/Private schools Private athletic teams/associations Other private fitness club Forest Preserve/Conservation District Boy/Girl Scout type organizations Lifetime Fitness - Algonquin Private recreation providers Area colleges Private tennis club YMCA/YWCA Other 0 20 40 60 80 100 120
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FUTURE PLANNING
9. What are the most effective resources for providing you with information regarding the Huntley Park District and its programs/services?
The Seasonal Program Brochure that is mailed out three times each year is by far the way most respondents hear about HPD programs, parks and services, with 82% naming this as an effective resource. The Districts website and their mailers and flyers are virtually tied as the second best resource for reaching residents, with just over 45% each. The website should be higher given the relative youth of the community, but needs enhancement to provide a more interesting and informative resource. Email blasts are still a more effective resource than Facebook and other social media, but the daily Facebook updates provided by HPD are a great way to keep informeed that many residents are simply not yet aware of. In fact, school flyers and word-of-mouth from Neighbors, Friends & Relatives could be used to promote the Facebook page. The responses for print media may show that newspapers are in decline, but the regional nature of many publications limits their effectiveness for a specific localized population. INFORMATION RESOURCES
Seasonal Program Brochure Huntley Park District Website Mailers & Flyers E-Mail Blasts School Flyers Neighbors/Friends/Relatives Northwest Herald The Daily Herald Huntley Journal Facebook/Twitter/Etc. Park District Staff Local Cable TV First Electric Newspaper Other 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90%
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10. When considering your needs and interests for the future, which Huntley Park District initiatives are you most interested in supporting?
It is very surprising in a down economic environment to get responses in support of so many of the initiatives that were presented. Support for an indoor pool facility garnered over 43%. Minigolf was close behind with 41%, followed by expansion of Stingray Bay with 33% support. The next four facilities that garnered support include three relatively significant new facilities that could require land acquisition just to have a location to build them. While land acquisition only garnered about 20% support, it is clear that this is an important need as community growth continues. Some of the items that received fewer votes, like an outdoor performing arts space or a disc golf course, may be developed much sooner than other higher-rated initiatives simply because they are significantly less costly, but will offer great returns in use. Looking at how demographics played into the responses, those respondents living in the northwest showed the greatest interest in land acquisition and in a nature center, though Sun City residents also support those initiatives, as well as the Sun Valley Farmstead restoration. Support for the top three initiatives was fairly evenly distributed both in age and locational responses. With seven of the initiatives garnering over 20% support and the indoor pool over 40%, the District should be poised to develop a marketing campaign when the economy shifts that will lead to future develoment of these key facilities. FUTURE SUPPORT
New Indoor Swimming Pool Mini-Golf Expand Stingray Bay Aquatic Center New Nature/Environmental Center Indoor Ice Facility Spray Pools in Neighborhood Parks New Indoor Sports Facility Land Acquisition/Open Space Outdoor Performing Arts Space Sun Valley Farmstead Preservation New Disc Golf Course None Other 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45%
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11. When considering program and facility needs over the next five years, what do you think will be of interest to members of your household?
Adult (21-55+) Programs garnered the most responses with nearly 34%, as adults are interested in being more active, and HPD expansion of programs for adults is a critical need. Running/walking, fitness and swimming each also garnered over 25%, which is similar to responses in other regional communities. Seven of the top nine responses are sports and fitness related, showing that active uses will continue to be of great importance. Then eight of the next twelve responses are much more passive in nature, with several of them related to various types of performing arts and programs that are mostly for adult enjoyment. While many amenities/activities like volleyball, skateboarding, lacrosse and bocce did not receive overwhelming response, many activities like these attract a significant patronage once the amenities are provided. Volleyball and lacrosse are sports that are gaining more interest in schools, while activities like bocce provide an easy way to keep the senior population active and outside. And low responses on things like tennis could be caused by the lack of courts within any of the community or neighborhood parks. The lower rated need for pre-school may seem like a downward shift, but the percentage of responses still shows a strong need for preschool, and an even greater need for before/after school programs and summer camps. Weekend programs garnered nearly 15%, supporting the response to Question 7 regarding program scheduling affecting the ability to participate. Another key item to consider is that nearly 10% of the respondents identified an interest in volunteerism. FUTURE NEEDS
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12. When planning for the future, how should the Huntley Park District prioritize each of the following areas?
Park & Facility Maintenance was clearly considered the highest priority with 52% of respondents calling it a First or High priority. Developing Bike/Ped Trails garnered 46% of the First or High priority combination, and was the highest rated overall First priority with 17%. This initiative requires collaboration with the municipalities and schools. Upgrading Parks & Facilities, with 36% calling it a First or High priority, shows an interest in making sure that what HPD already has is more important than New Amenities or New Facilities; each of which garnered a rating under 35%. An interesting anomaly is that Developing New Programs did not receive great support in this question, yet was the #1 interest identified in the previous question. Similarly, Expanding Golf Opportunities was the lowest priority item, yet was the 8th highest interest in the previous question. Land Acquisition was prioritized low here, with only 26% giving it a First or High priority level. Public Outreach and Communications/Marketing are not priorities to most respondents, who are apparently satisfied with the current efforts of the District. PRIORITIZATION
Park & Facility Maintenance Developing Bike/Ped Trails Upgrading Parks & Developing New Park Developing New Programs Developing New Facilities Land Acquisition Public Outreach Communications/Marketing Expand Golf Opportunities 0% 50% 100%
First Priority High Priority Moderate Priority Low Priority Not a Priority Don't Know No Answer
Please use the space below to provide any additional comments regarding the Huntley Park District that will assist in planning for the future.
Approximately 105 additional comments were presented by survey respondents. These vary from general accolades or concerns to comments about very specific elements. The comments received are presented in Appendix C.
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Two public workshops were held to solicit comments from the general public. The workshops were held on Thursday evening, August 26th and Saturday morning August 28th, with a total of seven individuals participating in the workshops. These workshops were advertised in local media, on the HPD website, and at HPD and community facilities. Because the sample size is small and the participants in this type forum are generally residents who come due to their specific interests in parks and recreation activities in their community, these types of workshops are not considered to be scientific in their results, but rather offer an exploratory way to gauge public opinion. A Comment Form was also available for the participants to fill out, with three individuals providing additional feedback in this manner. At the workshops, a presentation was made that focused on describing the steps being taken during the planning process being undertaken and providing a general overview of the District. Following this presentation, the participants were given an opportunity to express their views and provide their comments on the future needs and direction of HPD. Comments/findings from this meeting and the comment forms include:
PUBLIC WORKSHOPS
GENERAL COMMENTS

Make sure that HPD is prepared to adequately maintain parks and facilities well before adding more HPD has great facilities and friendly staff Stingray Bay, REC Center, Pinecrest and Cosman are great facilities Tomaso is a positive addition for athletics in the community Childrens sports programs are well run Picnic shelters are very nice; add to the parks quality Discovery Zone is wonderful The Fitness Center is an important offering since the private clubs are too fancy and too expensive Partnering with Centegra/Lifetime possibilities Hours of operation/program scheduling need to be more available to commuters after work More adult programs are needed, including continuing education (maybe in collaboration with schools) More free events/programs needed Amenities like tennis, bocce & horseshoes missing from parks Bike trail system in community is weak/disconnected/not well planned Program costs exceed other area agencies Athletic field schedules should be posted on website Preschool schedule needs to be coordinated better with K-12 schools as regarding inservice days, vacation schedules, start dates, etc. Land acquisition is a need and should be done now while property values are lower
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PROGRAM INTERESTS

More movie nights More programs for adults Later evening & weekend programs Continuing education programs HPD golf tournament Expanded junior golf and caddie programs Expanded fitness program hours July 4th location change collaborate with schools More open events of varied interests that are free to the public
PARK & FACILITIES INTERESTS

Mini-golf Future indoor pool should be considered Nature center Bridge over pond at Deicke Deicke Park building available for events/meetings Amphitheatre/band shell Tennis courts needed Ice skating venue (with boards for hockey) Gardens/Rose Garden Finish Tomaso Park improvements, including shelter, playground, concessions, drinking water, bathrooms & lighting Equestrian property north of Tomaso for possible acquisition Quarry site on Foster Road for possible acquisition Driving range/mini-golf site on West Algonquin for possible acquisition Fieldhouse/indoor soccer Dog park Landscape upkeep/improvements needed Additional winter sports venues/activities Volleyball sand is hard-pack and needs more regular maintenance Additional sled hill Integrated trail network
PUBLIC COMMENT CONCLUSIONS
The comments expressed by those residents attending the workshops and in written form provide additional insight into the interests and concerns of residents who have a definitive interest in the Huntley Park District. Many of the comments and interests expressed in these meetings were also expressed in the stakeholder meetings, survey responses and by members of the HPD staff and Board of Commissioners. As such, comments made by the workshop participants have been incorporated into many of the recommendations for programs, park and facility improvements, land acquisition and operational needs.
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A series of stakeholder and user group meetings were organized to gain insight into the relationships between the Huntley Park District, other public agencies serving the community, users of HPD facilities, partners in programming and special events, or other groups representing interests in parks and recreation. These meetings, held in late September and early October of 2010, provide an understanding of the collaborative nature of the relationships and how they can be strengthened in the future. During the meetings participants were asked about the working relationship of their agency or organization with the HPD. Questions were asked regarding the strengths and weaknesses of the District, the challenges faced by HPD and the general quality of HPDs services to the community. Some more focused questions were asked of certain groups or individuals who have specific knowledge that is of value to the future planning for the District. The organizations represented included:

STAKEHOLDER MEETING OVERVIEW
Village of Huntley Huntley Police Department Huntley Fire Department Huntley Public Works Huntley Area Public Library Consolidated School District 158 Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association Village of Lake in the Hills Village of Algonquin Huntley Youth Baseball Little League Huntley Travel Baseball Huntley Youth Football Players Choice Academy Pro Players Sports Academy Huntley Area Jaycees Huntley Rotary Club Sun City Lions Club Huntley lions Club Century 21 Harris Bank Citizens Bank American Community Bank Sun City Heritage Woods Huntley Senior Citizens Club Senior Program Users Recreation Program Users
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The individuals participating in the stakeholder and focus group meetings presented a diverse look at the Huntley Park District and provided valuable feedback that contributes to the numerous recommendations relative to parks, facilities, programs, partnerships and communications. There were interesting insights and discussions of issues that affect HPD and the community as a whole. Questions that were asked of all groups garnered responses that were quite diverse from one group to another as perceptions and attitudes differ. Some of the key findings, by topic, are as follows:
IMPORTANT FUNCTIONS OF THE HUNTLEY PARK DISTRICT

Promote health & fitness Add value to the community/property values Open athletic opportunities for children Recreation programs promote culture Provide major community activity venues o Stingray Bay o Pinecrest Golf Club o Deicke Park o Cosman Cultural Center o REC Center
Adding value to the community is a known benefit of parks and recreation. The business community especially understands this benefit is a very positive statement about HPD. The HPD facilities are very important community gathering places that meet the diverse needs and interests of the community. Parks and recreation play a key role in battling health issues related to obesity, diabetes and other diseases that are so widespread. HPD provides an important function in providing lifelong learning and recreational activities to the community.
IMAGE IN THE COMMUNITY

Provides great parks and services Very positive image Great facilities Good programs Nice playgrounds Good athletic venues May be taken for granted A bonus for residents in LITH & Algonquin
The District is perceived to have a relatively low profile, marketing their events and programs, working with other area agencies, but not significantly involved in lots of other community activities, clubs, etc. Residents of Algonquin and Lake in the Hills that live within the boundaries of HPD are confused about being served by multiple park and recreation agencies, yet those other agencies see it as a positive thing for those residents. There is a feeling that greater collaboration between agencies is possible and sometimes needed. Residents know that the District exists and know what it offers, but do not get actively involved in finding out more about the District or understanding its role in the community. HPD needs to step up and take charge in the community to promote greater HPD awareness.
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CHALLENGES FACING THE DISTRICT
Economy/Funding o Capital needs o Operations Park & facility maintenance ADA compliance Competition from private recreation providers Competition with other area recreation agencies Diversity of programs Partnerships/collaboration needs Community pride Lake in the Hills & Algonquin Website Marketing itself Need for more and more athletic venues
Funding in this economy is a challenge on many fronts, including residential foreclosures and business closings reducing tax base, families budget their income to more important things, etc. There is a general feeling that HPD needs to focus more attention on maintenance of existing parks and facilities, as the public wont support additional parks and facilities that stretch staff too thin. Competition with Lake in the Hills, Algonquin, Sun City, Centegra, etc. is looked at as an opportunity for great collaboration to minimize redundancies and provide better services for the entire community. There is some feeling that HPD needs to take more interest in their residents living in Lake in the Hills and Algonquin to ensure that they see the value of dual recreation service providers. Because the economy has affected business support of community initiatives throughout the country, significant networking and research is now required to find companies, and the right contacts within those companies, to obtain obscure grants for community projects. Upgrading the HPD website is a critical need to properly market the District.
NEEDS
More program variety o Adult programs o Continuing Ed/Instructional programs o Expanded age sports programs Face to face time with Lake in the Hills, Algonquin & Sun City o Common issues o Common goals o Early project planning o Program development o Collaborative opportunities Athletic organization collaboration o Regularly scheduled group meeting to discuss commonalities o Partnering to build new facilities o Build on volunteer interests o Involvement in new athletic venue planning/design
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Athletic improvements/needs o Parking o Lighting o Concessions o On-site Code Blue and AED safety equipment (and training) o Field turf to extend playability of fields o Team benches Regional Facility Needs o Indoor pool o Field house o Athletic complex o Integrated trail system
Clearly the needs identified by the stakeholders and user groups focused on new facilities and programs but even more so on collaboration in place of competition. The athletic group was the only one that had a high interest in a defined list of park and facility improvements. The athletics group, along with representatives of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin, expressed an interest in more athletic facilities to meet the needs of a still growing region. The success of the meeting with the athletic group created an interest in having regular meetings to discuss common goals and needs, with HPD leading the meetings. The schools expressed interest in HPD managing their middle school athletic fields and in looking at future collaboration on venues that can benefit both the schools and HPD. Lake in the Hills, Algonquin and Sun City representatives all expressed interest in increasing collaborative efforts.
HPD STAFF & COMMISSIONER VISIONING
Engaging the Board and staff in the planning process is one of the more important exercises that can take place in the development of a Comprehensive Master Plan for a variety of reasons. The Board and staff have a better understanding of the parks and facilities, operations, finances and potential solutions to issues than anyone else possibly can. They provide the insiders view of the agency. They understand the community that they serve, and take pride in the work that they do on behalf of the community. Ultimately, it is the Board and staff that will use the document to guide their work, so garnering their ideas and vision for the District also provides a sense of ownership in the Plan that will, hopefully, provide them with a good reason to implement the recommendations that they helped develop.
The five Commissioners were interviewed individually to discuss their background, why they became members of the Board, their goals, concerns and ideas for the future. On average the Commissioners have lived in the District for nearly 20 years and have served on the Board an average of 7.5 years. They visit and use HPD parks and facilities fairly regularly, with variances that come with seasonal changes. All expressed positive feelings about their work on the Board, and believe that their time is well spent. Each Commissioner had different reasons for getting involved, including interests in health and well-being, previous work with recreation agencies carrying over to their personal lives, giving back to the community and interest in promoting childrens activities.
BOARD OF COMMISSIONER INTERVIEWS
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There seems to be a general perception that the public takes interest in HPD only as it relates to their use of parks and facilities, with little contact from the public regarding any operational issues. They all believe that the community values the District and enjoy the programs and services offered. Several years ago the District transitioned from a Board-run agency to one operated by the staff. The relationship between the Board and staff is characterized as excellent, though with little interaction except with the Executive Director and, at times, with department heads. While some would prefer more interaction between Board and staff to encourage a more open relationship, others respect the idea that direct discussions can appear as micromanagement to staff members, and thus try to work through administrative channels. The Commissioners recognize that the HPD staff has built a strong relationship with the Village of Huntley and Consolidated School District 158, resulting in collaborative initiatives between them. There is no relationship between the Board and the elected officials of other public agencies. There is also recognition that relationships with Lake in the Hills, Algonquin and Sun City are minimal with the perception that they could be beneficial, but difficult to initiate. Each Commissioner identified the HPD staff as being one of the best things about the District showing enthusiasm and a willingness to work hard to better the District. The District has a good mix of facilities, needs to find out from the public what else is needed, and then figure out how to pay for it. There is a recognized spirit of cooperation in the community that translates to both the Board and the staff. Maintenance of parks and facilities, land acquisition, funding, program diversity, program scheduling, and prioritizing capital initiatives were some of the challenges identified. There is also some concern that after ten years of rapid growth and working in a fast-paced environment motivation of the staff and the Board to keep moving forward is needed. The Commissioners identified a variety of initiatives for the future, including:

Land acquisition now during the down economy Indoor pool Field house Maintenance facility Disk golf Climbing wall Second recreation center Dog park Trail development Connectivity between Sun City & Deicke/Warrington Stingray Bay expansion Sun Valley Farm restoration Outdoor adventure site More athletic fields Filling in program age gaps Program updates Website upgrades Marketing and promotion initiatives Collaboration with Union and Marengo Greater Board involvement in other community initiatives
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DEPARTMENTAL INTERVIEWS
Seven senior staff members were interviewed individually to discuss their backgrounds, departments, goals, concerns and opportunities for the future. Each of the staff members has an educational and/or work history background in their area of expertise. All have been with HPD for periods ranging from 5-22 years. The senior staff show a real dedication to their work, enthusiasm for the District and an interest in doing what is right to improve the District. The interviews with each staff member were varied due to their specific position and oversight. As such, some were asked wide-ranging questions on a variety of topics while other interviews were more focused. Senior staff have a good relationship with the Board, and appreciate both the willingness of the Commissioners to be participatory in the Board meetings and their hands-off approach in the field. They describe the Board as very supportive, and willing to let the staff do their jobs. The senior staff believe in their product; being proud of the quality of their parks and facilities, and their program offerings. They are customer-oriented, and enjoy a flexible staff that can get things done. Each identified several key issues that affect their department, including capital and budgeting needs, staffing needs, competitions, motivation and being overextended for time. The senior staff members identified a variety of operational needs and initiatives for the future, including:

Locating administrative staff in one place New computers/servers IT staff in-house Marketing staff Facility and program tracking Website upgrades Computer training Marketing & promotion initiatives Stingray Bay expansion Land acquisition ADA audit Tour other successful park districts Marketing Plan Mini-golf Climbing wall Park design modifications New maintenance facility Tennis courts Better skate park Athletic field irrigation Golf course irrigation Park maintenance staff Golf cart storage Golf course improvements Indoor sports complex Wind/solar initiatives Better work order system Maintenance Schedule Repair & Replacement Plan
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ALL-STAFF MEETING
A modified SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analysis workshop was held to involve as many of the regular staff personnel as possible. A series of staff demographic questions were asked first to understand the general background of the team. HPD staff show pride in their jobs and in the product that they offer. They recognize that District has a good mix of facilities that are the centerpiece of the community. They identify program diversity, customer service and the hometown feel of the community as important character elements for the District. The staff is very customer-oriented, and look for innovative ways to get things done. Most of the meeting participants identified several key issues that affect their department, but were even more apt to identify concerns relative to the District as a whole. A variety of concerns and operational needs were identified, including: Advertising/marketing program Marketing staff Add staff to meet expanded parks/facilities Let managers manage Rec Track program/licenses IT staff Evaluate competitive pay scales in area Loss of pool/fitness users to Centegra Loss of staff to Centegra More maintenance staff The staff members also identified a variety of initiatives for the future, including: More winter sports activities Toilets/drinking fountains all parks and golf course Use of green technologies New maintenance facility REC Center security system More facilities More parks Facility upgrades to keep things new New fitness equipment Marketing plan to determine who uses HPD Indoor pool Stingray Bay expansion Golf and athletic field irrigation New computer system Better park wayfinding The HPD staff seems to have a great understanding of the community that they serve, with many of their interests and park/facility initiatives similar to those identified by the public, stakeholders and user groups. Their interests are in providing quality services to the community and were able to identify their needs to do so in a more efficient manner.
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52
CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan HPD Profile & Operations
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Mission Statement
The Huntley Park District is committed to providing accessible parks, programs, open space and facilities for healthy activities, creative expression and learning opportunities in order to enhance the quality of life for district residents and visitors.
The Huntley Park District covers nearly 44 square miles and serves a population of approximately 40,000 residents. The District currently owns 380 acres of land that includes 12 parks, and utilizes or maintains land/amenities owned by the Village of Huntley and Consolidated School District 158. There are two additional neighborhood park properties designated in two subdivisions, with development dependent upon future buildout of those subdivisions. HPD also has a variety of facilities that meet many of the specific recreation needs of the residents, including the REC Center, Cosman Cultural Arts Center, Pinecrest Golf Club and Stingray Bay Family Aquatic Center. The Huntley Park District boundaries encompass portions of municipalities outside of the Village of Huntley, including small, largely undeveloped, areas of Union, Crystal Lake and Dundee. More significant areas of the Village of Lake in the Hills and the Village of Algonquin are within the HPD boundaries, with the land within those areas approximately 80% developed. The Huntley Park District has experienced a rather intensive ten years of growth during which most of its parks and all of its facilities were developed. The HPD parks and facilities are generally in very good to excellent condition and offer great recreational opportunities for the community. Balancing the maintenance needs of the parks and facilities with the enhancement needs is of primary importance, as there are many new facilities on the wishlist of the residents and District, but there is ongoing proactive maintenance required that the District accomplishes, but with limited resources.
Overview
Organization
The Huntley Park District is governed by a five-member Board of Commissioners who are elected by the residents of the District to six-year terms that stagger every two years. The Board provides the policy direction of the District and employs an Executive Director and administrative staff to administer the day-to-day operations of the District.
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The organizational structure of the staff is a modified pyramid structure, where five Directors of Finance/HR, Recreation, Parks, Facilities and Golf report to the Executive Director. There is a very open door policy within the District that transcends the management levels. HPD staff members are encouraged to use their own creativity in their jobs and show enthusiasm about their work and the agency that they represent. There are approximately 30 full time HPD staff members, mostly in administrative and supervisory roles, finance, maintenance and programs, plus the staff of Pinecrest Golf Club and the Fitness Center. During the summer season, the staff swells to over 200, including seasonal full and part-time staff that fill roles in maintenance, aquatics, programs, concessions and various other operational needs. An organizational chart is shown below.
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History
The Huntley Park District was founded in April of 1965 by leaders of the community, including Edwin and Lois Deicke. Purchasing a part of Donahoes Woods and donating it to the District, Edwin Deicke was one of the first elected members of the Board of Commissioners, along with Michael Kiley, Edward Piske, Lima Tessendorf and Irv Wasserstrass. The Board meetings were initially held at the Deickes Sun Valley Farm homestead. Deicke Park was renamed in honor of Edwin and Lois, and included a variety of active and passive recreation features, including a ball field, trails and picnic areas. The log cabin, built in the 1920s by the Huntley Boy Scouts, was moved to its present location in Deicke Park in the 1990s. Sun Valley Farm, which dates back to the 1840s, was designated as an historic landmark by the McHenry County Historic Preservation in 2001. Ol Timers Park was the second park to be developed for recreation by the District, dating to 1984. Beginning in 1999 with the development of Cottontail Park and through the 2000s, the Huntley Park District took on its decade of expansion as the community realized unprecedented population growth. Under the leadership of Executive Director Thom Palmer and Board President Chuck Yerke, HPD began development of many of the neighborhood parks, community parks and facilities that make up the District today. Dedicated in June of 2002, Stingray Bay Family Aquatic Center was one of the largest pool complexes in the area. In June of 2003, the District purchased the Pinecrest Golf Club. In 2004, the school district sold the old Huntley High School building to the District for use as a recreation center. A substantial gift from the Cosman family to be used for performing arts provided the District with the opportunity to open the REC Center and Cosman Cultural Center in April of 2005. The Tomaso Sports Park opened in 2006 as the Districts need for more athletic fields was realized. Tomaso, along with Red Hawks Rest, Ruth Family Park and Borhart Family Park, represent the newest additions to the District.
During the planning process a vast amount of information about the Huntley Park District was gathered and utilized to develop recommendations for park and facility improvements as well as program modifications. A significant amount of time was spent in assessing the existing parks and facilities, understanding the growth of the community, reviewing survey results, talking with the HPD staff and Board, and hearing from stakeholders and user groups. All of this information, when synthesized and evaluated in more detail, creates many recommendations beyond those for parks, buildings and programs. A series of operations recommendations have been developed that address a number of other aspects of the Huntley Park District. Many of these recommendations are written to promote ongoing activities that are important to the agency. Others are ideas that will help improve the District on a variety of fronts. While these recommendations may not necessarily be unique, they state a common sense approach that is needed in many park and recreation agencies, and are seen as important to HPD. The recommendations are presented in specific topic areas with an introductory statement as to their need and purpose. These recommendations expand on the Districts Mission Statement to express improvements in the following areas:
Operational Recommendations
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Administration Workplaces that instill a sense of value in their employees are successful in recruiting and sustaining a creative, energetic and loyal workforce. Developing administrative techniques that are consistent in delivery and equitable in interpretation produces agencies that operate efficiently and creatively in the best interests of the community. The Huntley Park District provides an excellent working environment that:
Promotes staff and Commissioner diversity to ensure that the park and recreation philosophies of HPD are consistent with the community being served. Periodically assesses the structure of the District administration to ensure that the District operates in an efficient and effective manner that meets the changing needs of the community. Encourages staff and Commissioners to continue to participate in community projects and civic organizations in an ongoing manner to promote HPD interests and develop working relationships throughout the community. Encourages HPD staff to use their expertise and initiative in developing new and creative approaches to the fulfillment of their positions. Prioritizes funding park and facility maintenance as the most important means of proactively providing a high quality product for the community before undertaking additional major capital initiatives. Always include and encourage departmental staff in decisions affecting their departments, including development of operating budgets and capital improvement recommendations. Continues to encourage conservation practices in all facilities, including recycling, energy conservation, alternative transportation modes, paper reduction and other techniques that promote environmental sensitivity.
Board/Staff Education The Huntley Park District has a professional staff with significant background in their areas of expertise both within and outside a parks and recreation environment. And the makeup of the Board of Commissioners includes a good mix of ages and interests that includes a background in parks and recreation outside their involvement with HPD. On-going Board and staff training is a key to continuing high quality services that can maintain high levels of customer satisfaction and interest. Training is also important in keeping up with trends in a variety of service areas within parks and recreation. From recreation trends to management style and information technology, training can come in many forms that will continue to benefit HPD. Keeping programming new and vibrant, dealing with customers in a positive manner and understanding the end user are all areas where training can help maintain quality. The Huntley Park District does an excellent job in staff and Board development that should continue to expand as community needs change.
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The Huntley Park District should continue to:
Develop a trackable staff training program that provides consistent annual educational courses in both broad and job-specific areas that are expanded over time. Continue to utilize regional and national park and recreation conferences as a means for both staff and Board development. Provide on-going customer-service training for all front-line staff, including all seasonal staff and volunteers, that promotes improved personal communications techniques, an overall knowledge of the District and training in specific areas represented by each individual. Broaden staff knowledge of the District through research and presentation of topics of interest, whether in program development, maintenance procedures, computer technologies or other areas that provides cross-educational opportunities. Develop a Board training program to enhance awareness of national and regional issues and trends in parks and recreation, business planning, professional ethics, team building and other subjects important to agency management. Engage local and regional professionals to speak to employee groups on general topics and on procedures that are job-specific. Keep up with technological improvements in everything from computer technologies to maintenance applications in order to maintain efficient use of resources.
Financial Resources While tax revenues, grants and program fees continue to provide a substantial portion of park and recreation agency funding, development of alternative funding sources through corporate partnerships is a trend designed to provide a means of increasing the quality of programs and facilities for the benefit of the community. It is important to balance the use of funding in an equitable manner that provides the necessary resources for daily operations as well as capital improvements. Following the past decade of growth, now is a perfect time for HPD to assess and prioritize its operational resources, major capital project feasibility and acquisition opportunities to best meet the future needs of the community.
Make existing park and facility maintenance and scheduled replacement of amenities and equipment, the first priority in developing annual operational and capital budgets for the District. Consider likley staffing, maintenance and operational budgets prior to prioritizing major new capital projects ahead of existing park and facility needs. Utilize a detailed Repair and Replacement Plan to proactively prepare for upcoming capital and maintenance needs. The R&R Plan should act as a standard tool in developing annual budgets especially for the Parks and Facilities Departments. 59

Perform annual assessments of the relationships between facility/program user fees, quality and measure of use to determine if fee alignments are appropriate. Continue to work toward the goal to ensure that programs and facilities are selfsustaining to the greatest extent possible. Seek to utilize alternative, non-tax funding sources, including sponsorships and grants, to fund all or part of new initiatives. Continue to develop partnerships and promote sponsorship packages that include combinations of the website and other HPD publications without requiring superfluous name placement requirements in return. Design new and creative opportunities for sponsorship of parks, programs, events and facilities. Broaden the utilization of the Huntley Park Foundation, the Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce and other civic organizations to assist in developing corporate partnerships and sponsorships that will benefit the District.
Collaboration Relationships between public agencies, and between public and private agencies, provide opportunities that may not exist within any one agency. Public agencies serving the same community have a unique opportunity to work together to address common goals and needs, and to work in a collaborative manner to make things happen. Agencies serving different communities, likewise, often find that collaborative efforts fill a need in their community. And business collaboration can provide a way for park and recreation agencies to realize goals that may not otherwise be possible. The Huntley Park District has positive relationships with many agencies, organizations and businesses that work collaboratively for the betterment of the community, maintaining strong and open relationships with the Village of Huntley, Consolidated School District 158, the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association, the Huntley Park Foundation, numerous businesses and business organizations, and the various athletics and social organizations in the community. HPD, the Village of Huntley, Consolidated School District 158, Huntley Area Public Library, and Huntley Fire Protection District meet regularly to assist in developing collaborative opportunities and addressing common community issues. Maintaining open communications and understanding the common goals and interests of other agencies allows HPD to work in a collaborative manner to provide enhanced services and facilities to the community. As the need for land and facilities continue to be a common need of many agencies, the collaboration between all governmental units and organizations becomes ever more important.
Commit to the Mission of the Huntley Park District and its established goals as the basis for all collaboration with other agencies.
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Continue to participate in interagency meetings with the Village, Library, Schools, Police, Fire, etc. Encourage additional participation by the Townships, Counties and other agencies to establish common interests. Coordinate regular meetings between Recreation Department staff and representatives of all the athletics organizations to discuss scheduling, field conditions, safety and other common issues and opportunities. Encourage greater collaboration between Huntley athletics organizations and comparable organizations in Lake in the Hills and Algonquin to promote joint utlization, scheduling and development of athletic venues in the area. Develop greater communications with the Kane County Forest Preserve District and McHenry County Conservation District to explore opportunities for collaborative development and operations of facilities, and for collaborative development of environmental education programs. Develop greater communications with Centegra to encourage joint development of HPD programs relative to health and wellness in the community. Consider greater collaboration with the Village of Lake in the Hills and the Village of Algonquin to explore progam offerings and eliminate redundancies, fill in program gaps, cross-promote and open programs offered by all three agencies to the residents of each at resident rates. Collaborate with the Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce in the marketing of the Huntley Park District. Work closely with community organizations such as the Rotary Club, Lions Club, Jaycees and others to educate their members about the role of HPD, its accomplishments and its future goals. Continue to nurture existing relationships and build new relationships with agencies and organizations that serve the community.
Customer Service Customer service is an important factor in park and recreation agencies because contact with the clientele (residents) happens at a variety of levels and for a variety of reasons. From assisting with program registration and complaints to ensuring access to programs and facilities, customer service requires communications skills, adequate technology and collaboration to operate effectively. The Huntley Park Districts front line customer service staff does a great job in representing the District in a professional and knowlegeable manner.
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Continually monitor the quality of customer service through user satisfaction surveys, including direct point-of-contact questionnaires that can be placed in drop-boxes at each facility and online questionnaires when services are provided. Enhance online registration visibility and ease of use to make it more accessible to all who prefer that method of registration. Consider online live registration to enhance program accessibility. Continue to work with the athletic organizations to further develop and maintain consistent policies for the use of HPD facilities to provide a safe, fair and fun environment for all participants. Work with Sun City, Huntley Senior Citizens, McHenry County Senior Services, Heritage Woods, Grafton Township and other transportation providers to ensure that schedules for transportation to/from HPD programs and events provide high accessibility to the non-driving senior population.
Maintenance & Planning Maintenance of parks and facilities is an extremely high priority for most park and recreation agencies as they search for ways to stretch the viable functional lifecycle of products and reduce the time and effort needed for ongoing maintenance. Utilizing materials and products that have extended life under extreme wear and tear allows agencies to extend replacement schedules. Other products and materials can be utilized that require less on-going maintenance, thus reducing the effort needed to maintain them and allow time to be appropriated to other needed endeavors. The maintenance of HPD parks and facilities is very good, but additional operational funding, more staff, better equipment and better maintenance facilities are all important in order to truly improve the condition of the parks and facilities. Playgrounds, site furnishings and other amenities are replaced as needed, with some equipment and amenities on a cyclical schedule for replacement. Continuing to address park and facility accessibility through compliance with the guidelines established through the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is another area that the District is beginning to address through the development on an ADA Accessibility Audit to identify needed improvements. Maintaining and enhancing existing parks and facilities is a key to the future effectiveness of the Huntley Park District.
Develop a detailed Repair and Replacement Plan that details an all-inclusive list of amenities, materials or equipment in each park and facility, when it was originally purchased/constructed, when replacement should take place based on standard lifecycle knowledge, likely budgetary needs and ongoing history as replacements and repairs take place. This R&R plan can include such things as playgrounds, mowing equipment, carpeting, copiers, computers, HVAC equipment, backstops, etc. Provide additional trained horticultural and plant maintenance staff to promote efforts toward more efficient, natural and context sensitive parks and open space that can reduce maintenance requirements within the parks.
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Adopt and utilize Illinois Department of Natural Resources best management practices and other appropriate environmental management techniques and control exotic and invasive species that inhibit ecological diversity. Develop a responsible internal work order system that is based on prioritized needs, simplicity, geographic proximity and flexibility to deal with emergency needs in a timely manner. Develop more prairie style landscape areas on park sites and utilize no-mow grass mixes in non-sports field areas that will reduce the areas to be mowed and, over time, require significantly less maintenance and care. Modify shrub pruning techniques to promote natural growth habits that are healthier for the plants and provide greater seasonal interest. Undertake a tree maintenance and replacement program to improve the aesthetics and health of existing trees and to create greater shade areas in the parks. Reduce the scale, slope and quantity of individual planting berms in the parks to reduce erosion, dessication of plants, mowing difficulty and overall maintenance requirements. Plan park sites to include greater accessibility to amenities, shade in common locations, plantings that are within the scope of current maintenance availability, natural landscapes where appropriate and amenities based on neighborhood demographics and needs. Explore options for new maintenance facility in the northwest quadrant of the District as community expansion occurs and future development of parks takes place. Consider collaborative use of new maintenance facilities with the Village of Huntley or Consolidated School District 158.
Volunteer Program Volunteers are very important to park and recreation agencies to assist with special events and maintenance, as advocates for parks in marketing and fundraising activities, and sometimes even as alternatives to salaried staff. Volunteer opportunities can be as varied as providing professional expertise to providing manual labor. The efforts of volunteers do require staff coordination, but the rewards for the community are many.
Increase the visibility and description of volunteer opportunities on the HPD website to give the volunteer program a greater presence and appeal. Consider adding a volunteer coordinator staff position, or as a volunteer position itself, as greater volunteer program development takes place.
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Encourage existing Sun City Garden Club or other local garden clubs to assist HPD in the care and maintenance of those parks where landscape gardens are a dominant feature, such as Parisek Park and Red Hawks Rest. Provide volunteers with training to match their areas of activity to ensure that customer service and volunteer activities meet the quality and philosophical goals of the District. Continue to utilize volunteers to assist with special events, selected recreation programs and general park maintenance activities, and to engage schools, organizations and church groups to assist in annual clean-up events. Promote teen and youth volunteer efforts by increasing recruiting and HPD awareness campaigns in schools and youth organizations. Engage residents and local business professionals with specific expertise to speak to employee groups on topics or procedures that are job-specific or assist instructors as guest speakers for specific programs related to their fields of expertise. Work closely with community organizations such as the Rotary Club, Lions Club, Jaycees and others to develop volunteer activities for their groups.
Health Healthy active living is one of the most popular and responsible trends nationwide in park and recreation planning. At the same time, childhood obesity, heart disease and many other diseases continue to be major health concerns that affect our quality of life. Providing healthy environments and activities for park and recreation patrons in which everyone can participate will continue to be of great importance.
Institute a policy that encourages a smoke-free environment on all HPD properties. Provide more concessionary items that offer low-fat, low-sodium alternatives to typical concessionary foods. Work to create programs in collaboartion with Centegra, Athletico or some other area healthcare providers that focus on health and wellness topics for children and adults. Encourage greater use of alternative modes of travel by adding bicycle racks at each park and facility and by working with area communities served by HPD to provide walkways and crosswalks that enhance safe pedestrian access to all parks and facilities. Make sure that all parks have adequate areas of shade, especially in areas designated for athletics spectator seating, playgrounds and seating areas.
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Stewardship With stewardship of the land falling more and more to park and recreation agencies, it becomes increasingly important that park districts offer environmental education opportunities. Educational offerings can help protect the natural areas within a park district by provide a better understanding of natural systems and can create a greater awareness of global ecological issues. It is also important that agencies undergo an internal transformation to be more environmentally friendly. The Huntley Park District has focused most of its past energies on active and passive recreation opportunities while the Kane County Forest Preserve District and the McHenry County Conservation District have focused on preservation and enhancement of open space. With limited non-agricultural land available within the HPD boundaries that is truly natural, this separation has served the area well. There are, however, opportunities for HPD to further develop its own stewardship initiatives.
Continue to establish pro-active pest management methods that include natural control methods and products, early detection of problems, preventive maintenance, and the selection of building materials and plant materials that are less susceptible to pest problems. Utilize chemical herbicides only as necessary to re-establish turfgrasses, and utilize natural materials such as corn gluten as a pre-emergent and vinegar to kill weeds in planting beds. Utilize energy-efficient light bulbs throughout District parks and facilities. Encourage the use of bio-degradable products and concessionaires and others utilizing HPD parks and facilities. containers by staff,
Utilize snow/ice melting products that minimize impacts on surrounding soils, water and plant materials. Develop additional interpretive signage in parks where natural areas are within or adjacent to the parks. Add tree and shrub markers to provide horticultural identification in appropriate locations throughout the parks. Enhance public awareness of the natural areas available within the District and their environmental significance. Utilize the expertise of area environmental consultants and agency staff from the Kane County Forest Preserve District and the McHenry County Conservation District to develop environmental programs, presentations and lectures. Plan for a future green nature center to act as the focus for environmental programming that is designed utilizing green building technologies where applicable and feasible.
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CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Classification of Parks
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CLASSIFICATION OF PARKS
The Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Guidelines developed by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) provide definitions for the various park classifications, but also recognize that, because each community is unique in terms of geographical, cultural and socioeconomic make-up, each community should develop its own standards for recreation, parks and open space. As a means of organizing the public open space facilities found in the Huntley Park District, the park areas are classified according to a hierarchy that provides for a comprehensive system of interrelated parks. All parks can be placed into specific categories or classifications. Some parks that meet neighborhood needs and have specialized amenities could be placed into more than one classification but are placed in the classification that meets the broadest definition. The park and open space classifications that are appropriate for the Huntley Park District do not necessarily meet the NRPA guidelines in a strict sense as far as size or amenities but are appropriate to the overall offerings of the District. The Huntley Park District classifications are as follows: Neighborhood Parks Community Parks Special Use Sites Open Lands
Definitions for the classification of parks and facilities are generally based upon the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) guidelines, but are refined to address the specific needs of the Huntley Park District and its residents. The criteria used to define each of the open space and park categories are described on the following pages. Parks, recreation and open space lands are also provided by other agencies and organizations that operate within the boundaries of the Huntley Park District. These entities provide public and private recreation amenities and services; some in collaboration with HPD. The other agencies/organizations included in this classification include: Village of Lake in the Hills Village of Algonquin Del Webbs Sun City Consolidated School District #158
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NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS
Neighborhood Parks Defined
The Neighborhood Park remains the basic unit of the park system and serves as the recreational and social focus of the neighborhood. Generally designed with a focus on informal active and passive recreation that serves neighborhood recreation needs, area is provided for recreational activities such as open play fields, court games, picnicking, and playground areas. Many neighborhood parks may also contain athletic fields that are used by community athletic organizations, thus serving the community as a whole. Neighborhood parks may also contain a specialty amenity or facility that serves the entire community, but has a limited user base.
Service Area
Neighborhood Parks serves an area within a to mile radius uninterrupted by major roads or other barriers.
Park Size
Five to 10 acres is considered optimal, though only five of the HPD Neighborhood Parks fall within this range. One to two acres are standard for every 1000 residents served.
HPD Neighborhood Parks
Eight parks in the HPD system are classified as Neighborhood Parks. These parks typically include a playground, picnic areas, athletic fields or courts, open space or other amenities. HPD neighborhood parks range in size from as small as the 1.1-acre Cottontail Park to the 16.5-acre Ol Timers Park. There are also two potential future neighborhood parks that are known park sites. Borhart Park Cottontail Park Kiley Park Ol Timers Park Parisek Park Ruth Family Park Tures Park Weiss Park Talamore Park Cider Grove Park 5.8 Acres 1.1 Acres 9.6 Acres 16.5 Acres 4.2 Acres 4.6 Acres 10.4 Acres 4.6 Acres
The location and service area of the neighborhood parks are shown on the adjacent map. 70
NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS
Neighborhood Park Service Area
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COMMUNITY PARKS
Community Parks Defined
Community Parks are diverse in nature, serving a broader purpose than the neighborhood or mini parks. While community parks may include neighborhood park amenities, and do act as neighborhood parks as well, the focus of a community park is on meeting community-based recreation, athletics and open space needs. These parks may contain significant athletic complexes, aquatic amenities, walking paths, picnic areas and various other active and passive amenities depending upon community needs and site suitability. In some cases, a park with only a single athletic field that provides a venue for community athletic organizations may fall into this category regardless of its small size. The Community Park may also be the venue of an activity or amenity that has broad community appeal but does not fit the Special Use designation.
Service Area
Community Parks usually serve multiple neighborhoods, and with special amenities serving the residents of the entire Park District. With neighborhood park amenities, the Community Park typically is designated to serve an area within a mile to over a 3 mile radius.
Park Size
25.0 acres or more are preferred, but special amenities of community interest or athletic fields that provide for the community as a whole may be on much smaller sites. The traditional Community Park contains five to eight acres for every 1000 residents served.
HPD Community Parks
Three parks in the HPD system are classified as Community Parks. Tomaso and Warrington Parks include multiple athletic fields as well as other unique amenities that service the entire community. Deicke Park is a destination park for the entire community that provides a variety of active and passive recreation opportunities. Deicke Park Tomaso Sports Park Warrington Park 24.5 Acres 38.0 Acres 62.0
The location and service area of the community parks are shown on the adjacent map. 72
COMMUNITY PARKS
Community Park Service Area
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SPECIAL USE SITES

Special Use Sites Defined
Special Use Sites cover a broad range of specialized park and recreation facilities, often with a single major use. Golf courses, historical sites, community center sites, theme parks, water parks and other special use facilities fall into this category. These parks may also include neighborhood or community park elements, but with amenities that have a regional appeal to visitors from outside the boundaries of the Park District.
Service Area
Special Use Sites serve the entire Park District, and often provide amenities that draw visitors from well beyond the boundaries of the District.
Park Size
The size of the amenity or facility site can vary significantly based on the needs of the amenity/facility.
HPD Special Use Sites
Three HPD sites/facilities are classified as Special Use Sites. Only one of the sites, Pinecrest Golf Club, is owned by the Huntley Park District. The other sites include the tennis facility at Huntley High School and the soccer fields on the Village of Huntley Public Works land. These sites/facilities offer amenities that appeal to the District residents and often to a greater regional population. Pinecrest Golf Club 130.0 Acres Huntley High School Tennis 1.4 Acres Public Works Soccer 3.3 Acres
The location of the Special Use Sites are shown on the adjacent map.
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SPECIAL USE SITES
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Special Use Sites/Facilities
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OPEN LANDS
Open Lands Defined
Open Land sites are properties designated as parks that have few or no built amenities, but provide natural areas or open space that can be utilized for passive recreation. These parks may have a trail, picnic tables and benches, but are dominated by open lawns for informal play. While many park and recreation agencies may categorize stormwater management sites as special use, they may also be categorized as Open Lands.
Service Area
Open Lands are undefined as they do not serve a population but rather a resource. Open Lands generally serve the entire Park District, though some sites can be very neighborhood oriented.
Park Size
Open Lands can be of any size, though smaller sites do not provide the open space intent of larger sites. In the case of natural areas, it is important to include enough land to protect the resource in an adequate manner.
HPD Open Land Sites
Only one HPD truly falls into this category and that is Red Hawks Rest. An open space area is also located in the Wing Pointe neighborhood that will not be developed due to location and access and therefore also falls into this classification. Other parks, like Deicke and Parisek, include land areas that are wooded, gardens or wetlands, but are more acurately categorized in some other classification of park. Still other parks, like Cottontail and Kiley, border on natural wetland areas but are developed with significant active recreation. Red Hawks Rest Wing Pointe South 1.0 Acres 1.0 Acres
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OPEN LANDS
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Open Lands
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Dual Service Areas
The Huntley Park District encompasses portions of both the Village of Lake in the Hills and the Village of Algonquin. Each of these municipal bodies have a park and recreation department that provides parks, programs and services to their residents, As such, those areas within HPD are served by both the HPD and the municipal department.
Lake in the Hills Parks & Recreation Department
Lake in the Hills has built a series of parks within the boundaries of the Huntley Park District in order to provide parks and recreation to their residents. Sunset Park is a large community park with ten ball fields, seven soccer fields, three football fields and a variety of other active recreation fields and amenities, including a playground, skate park and a splash pad. Leroy Guy Park is a Neighborhood Park that includes a variety of athletic fields and courts along with a playground. The other eight parks all fall into the Mini-Park classification which the Huntley Park District does not have. These parks are all small parks that provide playgrounds in residential neighborhoods. Sunset Park Leroy Guy Park Bark Park Natures View Park Celebration Park Avalon Park Normandy Park Edward Hines Park Cattail Park Rolling Hills Park Lynn Dillow Park
Village of Algonquin Events & Recreation Division
Algonquin has two parks within the boundaries of the Huntley Park District. Kelliher Park is adjacent to the School District 58 Square Barn Campus and includes a variety of athletic fields, courts and a playground area. James B. Wood Park is only partially developed with a playground and a trail system that loops around a detention area. Both parks fall within the Community Park classification. Kelliher Park James B. Wood Park
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Lake in the Hills and Algonquin Park Service Areas
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DEL WEBBS SUN CITY

Private Community Recreation
Sun City is a 55+ adult community that began construction in 1999 and currently is near its buildout of approximately 5500 homes. Located entirely within the boundaries of the Huntley Park District, the community was designed to provide residents with their own private recreation facilities and amenities that are not open to general nonresident use. Prairie Lodge is a large, 94,000 sq. ft. recreation center that includes a variety of indoor use areas and features, including a restaurant, dance/aerobics studio, billiards room, library, arts and crafts rooms, ballroom, fitness center and an elevated track overlooking an indoor aquatics center. Outdoor amenities include bocce courts, scenic ponds, shelters, a childrens playground, an outdoor pool and the Whisper Creek Golf Course. Meadow View Lodge is a smaller, 20,000 sq. ft. facility that includes a fitness center, outdoor pool, aerobics/dance studios, meeting rooms and various other amenities. The eight-court Tall Oaks Tennis Club includes a Championship Court with terraced seating. Other community amenities include the Mill Grove Woodworking Shop and Model Train Center, ball field, horseshoes, Wildflower Park, Wildflower Lake with a fishing pier, numerous other small parks and open space areas, and miles of trails.
* Photos provided by 55places.com
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DEL WEBBS SUN CITY
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Sun City Recreation Service Areas
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School Campus Recreation
As the region grew through the 1990s and 2000s, CSD #158 developed three sites in campus-style settings with multiple schools and recreation amenities. Most of the recreation amenities are not promoted for general community use, though the Huntley Park District and the Villages of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin do utilize some available courts and fields for recreation programs and sports leagues. The Harmony Road Campus includes Huntley High School and Leggee Elementary School. Leggee has a playground and various outside activities available, while the High School has the usual athletic fields and courts utilized for school sports programs. The athletic venues include two baseball fields, three softball fields, an eight-lane track with field activities, three football fields, and four+ soccer/multi-use fields. The eight tennis courts are also utilized by HPD for open tennis and programs. The Reed Road Campus includes Chesak Elementary School, Martin Elementary School and Marlow Middle School. Playgrounds, sports courts, baseball, softball, soccer/football/multi-use fields, and a track and field facility are available on the campus, with the ball fields utilized by HPD and Lake in the Hills for athletic programs. The Square Barn Campus includes Conley Elementary School, Mackeben Elementary School, and Heineman Middle School. Playgrounds, sports courts, baseball, softball, soccer/football/multi-use fields and a track and field facility are available on the campus, with the ball fields utilized by HPD and Algonquin for athletic programs.
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CSD 158 Recreation Service Areas
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SERVICE AREA PLAN

The map on the following page illustrates the service areas for Neighborhood and Community parks along with the locations of Special Use Sites and Open Lands found within the Huntley Park District. Service areas are generally consistent with the guidelines established by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). The Special Use Sites do not have defined service areas as they are considered to offer amenities and services that appeal to the entire resident population of the District. The Open Lands do not have defined services areas. In some cases, the actual service area of any park may be larger if the park includes amenities of regional appeal. Weiss Park is an example of this, where the skate park facility draws users from the entire community. Smaller service areas are also possible where major roadways act as barriers to park access. For illustration purposes, these roadway barriers are not shown. The service areas identified are as follows: Neighborhood Parks -Mile Radius Future Neighborhood Parks -Mile Radius Community Parks Up to 3-Mile Radius Special Use Sites Open Lands Lake in the Hills Parks Algonquin Parks Sun City Park Areas Sun City Special Use Sites CSD 158 Schools
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With the service area radii for each park type superimposed, it is evident that the Huntley Park District provides generally good park and recreation access to its residents with Lake in the Hills and Algonquin filling in service gaps within their community boundaries. Del Webbs Sun City parks/facilities and CSD 158 Schools are also identified though most of the service areas of their recreation lands overlap HPD parks and facilities. Rural areas within the District are not served by parks fitting the Neighborhood Park classification, but as the area continues to grow, new parks will be developed to better meet the needs of those residents. 84
RECREATION SERVICE AREA PLAN
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Recreation Service Area Plan
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CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Comparative Assessment
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The comparative assessment is a benchmarking tool that provides an understanding of how the Huntley Park District compares to other area park & recreation agencies in providing park & recreation amenities and facilities for its residents. With the area still likely to sustain additional population growth and land acquisition a priority, this type of comparison is a good current snapshot of agency offerings that should be taken into consideration when developing new parks or redeveloping existing parks. A comparative assessment is developed as a localized regional assessment that offers a more accurate analysis of needs and potential HPD deficiencies as compared to an assessment that considers national or state averages. The comparison includes park districts and municipal departments that are in regional proximity to the Huntley Park District and mostly still able to expand in area and population. Park & recreation agencies that are in growth areas are the focus for comparison as their level of service offerings are subject to ongoing changes in population or amenities as is the Huntley Park District. The 17 districts selected for comparison include:
Village of Algonquin Bartlett Park District Belvidere Park District Cary Park District Crystal Lake Park District DeKalb Park District
Dundee Township Park District Village of Lake in the Hills Village of Lake Zurich City of McHenry Rolling Meadows Park District Roselle Park District
Streamwood Park District St. Charles Park District Sycamore Park District Wauconda Park District City of Woodstock
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While several other park & recreation agencies were considered for the comparison, most were not included due to their population numbers being too low or too high, and some because their amenity offering was not readily available information. While some of the adjacent or nearby districts are relatively small or somewhat large when compared to HPD, their inclusion is still valid when comparing amenity offerings based on population ratios. This approach is consistent with National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Statewide Outdoor Recreation Partnership Plan (SORPP) recommendations. This comparative assessment includes the quantification of recreation amenities that are traditionally found in park & recreation agencies and common to most of those agencies included in the analysis. It also includes a few specialty amenities that are often found in park agencies in the region. The population of each park agency and the number of total acres of park lands are key components of the assessment in being able to provide a viable analysis based on comparable elements. When preparing an assessment comparing the offerings of park & recreation agencies, it is important to recognize that side-by-side comparisons of the quantity of any amenity is not a comparison that is viable or even appropriate unless the population numbers within agencies boundaries are almost identical. Clearly a community of 10,000 people is likely to have less soccer fields than a community of 50,000; a difference that translates to any amenity. Therefore, it is important to compare the Huntley Park District to other agencies based on the ratio of an amenity to the population. As such, the two columns in the Comparative Assessment chart that are of key importance are the COMPARISON columns where the population served by any single amenity is compared. For example, the Huntley Park District provides one ball field for every 2,105 residents living within its boundaries, while the other 17 agencies average one ball field for every 1,947 residents. For this analysis, the population, acreage and amenities are totaled for the 17 districts and then divided by 17 to get an average for each comparison element. The population average (31,500) is then divided by each amenity average to provide the ratio of each amenity that is compared with the Huntley Park District. The comparative assessment does assume some measure of inconsistency given that park agencies often have various types of a single amenity that are simply identified on their websites and promotional materials without differentiating the type. For example, the reporting of a basketball facility could include a full court, a half court or even a three-way court often found at parks adjacent to elementary schools. Similarly, soccer fields come in a variety of sizes and are simply totaled based on published numbers. Unfortunately, there is no real consistency in the reporting, with some park agencies counting all of their available amenities regardless of their size or use, while others identify only those used for organized sports. Also, some agencies will count a single field as both a soccer and football field based on its duel use even though it is physically only one field. In all cases, unless specific alternative documentation was readily available, the individual park agencys websites, quarterly program brochures or comprehensive plans were used to garner the number of amenities shown in the comparison chart. Some verification utilizing aerial photography was initiated where appropriate.
COMPARISON OVERVIEW
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Because the Huntley Park District encompasses portions of two municipalities that have their own departments providing parks and recreation services, certain comparisons in this assessment correctly present the fact that HPD is average in its amenity offerings; though inclusion of the amenities within the boundaries of HPD that are provided by Lake in the Hills and Algonquin raise the overall available comparisons quite high. While these amenities are only for use by residents of LITH and Algonquin, they are located within the District, and do serve the residents of those communities who live within District boundaries Within HPD boundaries, the Village of Lake in the Hills, at its Sunset Hills Park, Leroy Guy Park, Bark Park and eight mini-parks, owns and operates 13 ball fields, 15-18 soccer/football fields (depending on layout), 4 tennis courts, 2 basketball courts, 11 playgrounds, 2 sand volleyball courts, 7 shelters/gazebos, a skate park, and a variety of other amenities. The Village of Algonquin has two park sites Kelliher Park and James B. Wood Park - within the boundaries of HPD. Amenities at these parks include 2 ball fields, 2 soccer/football fields, 3 tennis courts, 3 basketball courts, 2 playgrounds, 1 shelter, and a variety of other amenities. The comparisons described herein are based solely on the amenities offered by the Huntley Park District, and do not include those amenities provided by LITH or Algonquin except as shown within the individual amenity discussions.
DUAL RECREATION SERVICE AREAS
HPD Boundary Lake in the Hills Algonquin
POPULATION
In most of this region there was measurable, and in some cases significant, growth during the 2000s. Because of this growth, the 2000 U.S. Census information is out of date and the 2010 Census data has not yet been released to provide current data. All of the population numbers are based on estimates as provided by each agency. The 17 park & recreation agencies included in this comparison range in population from the approximately 12,000 in the Wauconda Park District to 65,000 in the Crystal Lake Park District. The population number used for the Huntley Park District is 40,000; an estimate based on the number of households and an assumed average number of residents per household. Of those agencies included in the comparison, Bartlett and DeKalb have population numbers most similar to Huntley with approximately 41,000 and 43,000 residents respectively. As discussed above, the Huntley Park District overlaps parts of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin, so the populations shown for all three include the redundancies consistent with those overlaps in service areas.
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ACRES OF PARK LAND
NRPA has long utilized 10 acres per 1000 population as a standard recommendation for the amount of land that a park & recreation agency should provide. Of course this standard is one that, again, varies based on local needs and assessment. The total acres of land used for this comparison are based on figures published by each agency on their websites, in their program catalogs or as reported to IPRA/IAPD. Where possible, only land owned by the agency is included in the comparison. In some cases verification of owned vs. leased or managed land area is not available. The acreage in the comparison ranges from only 88 acres in the Wauconda Park District to 1533 acres in the St. Charles Park District. The following list illustrates the acreage per 1000 residents for HPD and each of the comparison agencies.
Park & Recreation Agency Acres per 1000 Residents
Cary Park District St. Charles Park District Sycamore Park District City of McHenry Village of Lake in the Hills City of Woodstock Crystal Lake Park District Average Village of Algonquin Dundee Township Park District Village of Lake Zurich Streamwood Park District Huntley Park District DeKalb Park District Bartlett Park District Belvidere Park District Roselle Park District Rolling Meadows Park District Wauconda Park District
45.4 Acres 31.9 Acres 22.9 Acres 22.6 Acres 22.6 Acres 22.0 Acres 21.4 Acres 17.2 Acres 17.6 Acres 13.5 Acres 11.0 Acres 9.8 Acres 9.5 Acres 9.3 Acres 9.3 Acres 8.3 Acres 8.2 Acres 7.9 Acres 7.3 Acres
The average of the 17 comparative districts exceeds the NRPA standard in a relatively significant manner with 17.2 acres per 1000 residents. This is due in part to visionary planning and development, along with significant capital revenues during the 2000s, which combined to allow greater availability of open space for parks and recreation. Another variable is that some park & recreation agencies, such as the Cary Park District, are responsible for a significant portion of the stormwater management areas within their boundaries. The Cary Park District has placed soccer goals in many of the detention basins as a way to utilize these sites for active recreation when they are not flooded. But in many agencies, these stormwater management areas are devoid of any true recreation purpose yet are included in their acreage calculations.
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The Huntley Park District currently provides 9.5 acres per 1000 residents based on 380 owned acres of land and 40,000 residents. Inclusion of the soccer fields at the Huntley Public Works site, the tennis courts at Huntley High School, the Village Green and the neighborhood park sites that are planned for the future, but not yet deeded to HPD, total enough to barely pass the 10 acre/1000 NRPA threshold. HPD is currently exploring available land for acquisition and future recreation development that will allow the District to surpass the NRPA guideline before additional community growth is recognized.
BALL FIELDS
The number of baseball and softball fields and the type of fields varies significantly from one agency to another. Ball fields for neighborhood pick-up games may not have all the amenities of competition fields but still meet resident needs. Some park & recreation agencies include all ball fields in their official count while others include only fields used for competition.
Park & Recreation Agency # Ball Fields Population Per Field
Sycamore Park District Wauconda Park District Huntley Park District (within boundary) City of Woodstock City of McHenry Roselle Park District DeKalb Park District St. Charles Park District Village of Lake in the Hills Average Rolling Meadows Park District Village of Lake Zurich Huntley Park District (provided by HPD) Crystal Lake Park District Streamwood Park District Bartlett Park District Village of Algonquin Dundee Township Park District Cary Park District Belvidere Park District
23 10 33 20 21 13 24 27 15 16.2 10 10 19 28 15 17 12 19 5 6
609 1,200 1,212 1,250 1,333 1,462 1,729 1,778 1,933 1,947 2,000 2,100 2,105 2,321 2,400 2,412 2,500 2,789 3,800 5,333
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Ten of the 17 comparison agencies provide a greater ratio of ball fields to population than HPD. With 19 ball fields, HPD provides one ball field for every 2,105 residents of the District. While the athletic organizations that utilize HPD athletic fields all want additional quality fields at their disposal, 95% of the Community Survey respondents who are familiar with athletic field use feel that the availability of athletic fields is at least average with 75% good to excellent. As presented previously, Lake in the Hills and Algonquin also have ball fields within the boundaries of the Huntley Park District with 13 fields and two fields respectively. The proposed management of the ball fields at the two middle schools will also add to the number that HPD provides to the community and will move HPD higher on the comparison by lowering the ratio of fields per population.
The Huntley Park District provides 26 marked soccer and football fields to serve its residents, a ratio of one soccer/football field for every 1,538 residents of the District. Only four agencies Cary, Lake in the Hills, St. Charles and Sycamore - provide a better ratio of soccer/football fields for their residents. Some HPD parks also have open space that can be utilized for neighborhood pick-up games that are not marked fields and are not included in the count. Both Lake in the Hills and Algonquin have soccer/football fields within the boundary of HPD. And as noted previously, some agencies utilize stormwater detention basins as neighborhood soccer fields and include those fields in their counts.
Park & Recreation Agency # Soccer Fields Population Per Field
SOCCER/FOOTBALL FIELDS
Huntley Park District (within boundary) Sycamore Park District Cary Park District St. Charles Park District Village of Lake in the Hills Huntley Park District (provided by HPD) City of McHenry City of Woodstock Village of Lake Zurich Bartlett Park District Average Wauconda Park District Rolling Meadows Park District Crystal Lake Park District Village of Algonquin DeKalb Park District Streamwood Park District Dundee Township Park District Belvidere Park District Roselle Park District
43 15 17 36 19 26 14 12 10 18 13.3 5 8 20 9 12 9 12 7 3
930 933 1,118 1,333 1,526 1,538 2,000 2,083 2,100 2,278 2,369 2,400 2,500 3,250 3,333 3,583 4,000 4,417 4,571 6,333 95
The importance of tennis is evidenced from one park agency to another by the extreme differences in ratio of courts to population. The DeKalb Park District provides four tennis courts total; one tennis court for every 10,750 residents. Rolling Meadows, where tennis is apparently of more importance to its residents, provides 15 courts; one court for every 1,333 residents. HPD is just below the average of the 17 comparison agencies, providing one court for every 5,000 residents while the average is one for every 4,354. Lake in the Hills has four tennis courts within HPD boundaries, while Algonquin has one, with expansion area for an additional court. The Huntley Park District tennis court offering consists of the eight lighted courts located at Huntley High School. While the program guide and facility matrix clearly identify that these courts are available for use through HPD, some residents are not aware of this availability. The location of the high school and the location of the courts behind the school building contribute to tennis being an out-of-site, out-of-mind amenity. As over 9.8% of the respondents to the Community Survey identified tennis as an interest over the next five years, a number that is higher than seen in many agencies, it may be important to add tennis courts in appropriate locations elsewhere in the District.
Park & Recreation Agency # Tennis Courts Population Per Court
TENNIS COURTS
Rolling Meadows Park District Wauconda Park District City of Woodstock Crystal Lake Park District Sycamore Park District St. Charles Park District Huntley Park District (within boundary) Village of Lake Zurich Average City of McHenry Huntley Park District (provided by HPD) Village of Algonquin Dundee Township Park District Village of Lake in the Hills Streamwood Park District Roselle Park District Belvidere Park District Bartlett Park District Cary Park District DeKalb Park District
15 5 9 19 4 14 13 5 7.2 6 8 6 10 5 6 3 5 5 2 4
1,333 2,400 2,778 3,421 3,500 3,429 3,077 4,200 4,354 4,667 5,000 5,000 5,300 5,800 6,000 6,333 6,400 8,200 9,500 10,750
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Basketball continues to be a staple amenity in most park & recreation agencies as something that can be utilized by individuals as well as groups for individual practice, pick-up games and for organized team competition. The Huntley Park District only has seven basketball courts serving the community, a ratio of one for every 5,714 residents. Only three of the 17 park districts in the comparison Cary, Crystal Lake and DeKalb provide a lower ratio of basketball courts than the Huntley Park District. Lake in the Hills and Algonquin each has two basketball courts within HPD boundaries. With 15% of the Community Survey respondents identifying basketball as an interest, court locations offered throughout the District and inclusion of the LITH/Algonquin courts in the evaluation, HPD residents are appropriately served by the current number of basketball courts. Additional courts in Warrington and Tomaso Parks could be considered for the future as well as in new parks as they are planned and developed.
Park & Recreation Agency # Basketball Courts Population Per Court
BASKETBALL COURTS
Village of Algonquin St. Charles Park District Dundee Township Park District City of Woodstock Bartlett Park District City of McHenry Wauconda Park District Sycamore Park District Average Huntley Park District (within boundary) Streamwood Park District Rolling Meadows Park District Village of Lake in the Hills Roselle Park District Village of Lake Zurich Belvidere Park District Huntley Park District (provided by HPD) Crystal Lake Park District Cary Park District DeKalb Park District
15 20 20 9 15 10 4 4 8.7 11 9 5 7 4 4 6 7 11 2 3
2,000 2,400 2,650 2,778 2,733 2,800 3,000 3,500 3,618 3,636 4,000 4,000 4,143 4,750 5,250 5,333 5,714 5,909 9,500 14,333
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Playgrounds are a very important part of any park and recreation agency providing many residents with their first park experiences as children. With 12 playgrounds, the Huntley Park District provides one playground for every 3,333 residents of the District, falling far short of the one per 1,521 average of the 17 comparative agencies. The interesting anomaly in this comparison is that the only parks without a playground are Red Hawks Rest and Pinecrest Golf Club - two places where a playground shouldnt be located and Tomaso Sports Park, where it simply hasnt yet been constructed. Furthermore, Warrington and Deicke Parks have two playgrounds each. Lake in the Hills and Algonquin have playgrounds in their community, neighborhood and mini parks, with a total of 12 additional playgrounds within the boundaries of HPD. By including all existing playgrounds, plus recommended new playgrounds in Tomaso and Warrington, the Districts ratio is much closer to the average.
Park & Recreation Agency # Playgrounds Population Per .
PLAYGROUNDS
Cary Park District Wauconda Park District Village of Lake Zurich Streamwood Park District Bartlett Park District Sycamore Park District Village of Algonquin St. Charles Park District City of Woodstock City of McHenry Average Roselle Park District Village of Lake in the Hills Huntley Park District (within boundary) Dundee Township Park District DeKalb Park District Rolling Meadows Park District Belvidere Park District Crystal Lake Park District Huntley Park District (provided by HPD)
23 14 23 38 31 10 21 33 17 19 20.7 12 18 24 20 20 9 12 24 12
826 857 913 947 1,323 1,400 1,429 1,455 1,471 1,474 1,521 1,583 1,611 1,667 1,893 2,150 2,222 2,667 2,708 3,333
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SAND VOLLEYBALL
Sand volleyball has increased in popularity in recent years in large part to the success of the US Olympic Volleyball team. Many park & recreation agencies offer sand volleyball either in direct relationship to their aquatic facilities or as stand-alone amenities in their parks. Six of the 17 comparative agencies do not provide sand volleyball courts. When considering all agencies, HPD is somewhat better than the average. And when considering all of the volleyball courts within HPD boundaries, residents of the District are second only to Lake Zurich in courts available. With nearly 10% of the Community Survey respondents identifying volleyball as an interest, HPD should continue to look for opportunities to include sand volleyball in new parks as they are developed.
Park & Recreation Agency # Volleyball Courts Population Per Court
Village of Lake Zurich Huntley Park District (within boundary) Streamwood Park District Village of Lake in the Hills Wauconda Park District St. Charles Park District City of McHenry Average (of those providing volleyball) Roselle Park District Belvidere Park District Huntley Park District Average Dundee Township Park District Crystal Lake Park District Rolling Meadows Park District Village of Algonquin Bartlett Park District Cary Park District DeKalb Park District Sycamore Park District City of Woodstock
6 9 8 6 2 7 4 4.3 2 3 7 2.8 4 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
3,500 4,444 4,500 4,833 6,000 6,857 7,000 7,723 9,500 10,667 10,000 11,394 13,250 16,250 20,000 0 0 0 0 0 0
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The Huntley Park Districts Stingray Bay Family Aquatic Center provides a variety of swimming, diving, and play amenities for residents and visitors. Four of the comparative agencies Crystal Lake, Lake in the Hills, Lake Zurich and Wauconda do not have aquatic facilities while the Dundee Township Park District has three facilities. HPDs aquatic facility serves the entire 40,000 population with only DeKalb and Bartlett, HPDs most similar population comparative agencies, serving higher populations. Rolling Meadows has the best ratio with two facilities serving their 20,000 population. Those residents living in Algonquin who are also within the boundaries of HPD have use of the aquatics facilities in both. Also within the boundaries of HPD, Centegra Fitness has both indoor and outdoor pools, and the Del Webb Sun City community has their own pool. Lake in the Hills does not have an aquatics facility. Expansion of the existing Stingray Bay will add more amenities and offer greater appeal but will not improve the population ratio. Respondents to the Community Survey rated swimming and diving the fourth highest interest with 26%, and over 43% expressed support for an indoor aquatics facility. Golf course offerings are unique in that the quality of the course determines whether it will draw users from outside the immediate area in addition to the residents who might have annual memberships and participate in golf programs. A quality facility in a small park & recreation agency can successfully compete with any other course and make development and operations a viable amenity for an agency. Only six of the 17 comparative agencies have their own golf facilities. Dundee Township has two separate 18-hole courses while DeKalb has an 18-hole course and a separate 9-hole executive course. Cary and Sycamore have 18-hole facilities while St. Charles and Bartlett offer 9-hole executive courses. Approximately 23% of Community Survey Respondents identified golf as a future interest placing it 8th amongst the 45 activities identified. HPDs Pinecrest Golf Club offers a 6,604yard Par 72 golfing experience that draws players from throughout the region. There are seven other courses within six miles of Pinecrest including the Whisper Creek Golf Club at Del Webbs Sun City.
POOLS/AQUATICS
GOLF COURSES
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With the growth of the fitness industry in the 1980s leading to several new private fitness center chains across the country, it wasnt long before park & recreation agencies began developing fitness centers as key facilities offered to their residents. Soon after, hospitals began developing high-end fitness centers that provide aquatics, spa services and related health and wellness programs. Ten of the 17 comparative agencies have fitness centers that offer membership-based facilities, with each agency, along with HPD, having one facility. Neither Algonquin nor Lake in the Hills has a fitness center. There are a variety of private fitness clubs in the area competing with HPDs Fitness Center including Centegra Health Bridge, Cardinal Fitness, and Lifetime Fitness.
FITNESS FACILITIES
SHELTERS/GAZEBOS
Another staple of community and neighborhood parks, picnic shelters and gazebos are used more as shaded areas from which to watch children playing or simply to sit and read than they are for picnics. Every agency in the comparative assessment provides shelters and gazebos including many that are available to rent for group outings. With 12 shelters/gazebos, HPD is right at the average of the comparative agencies providing one for every 3,333 residents.
Park & Recreation Agency # Shelters & Gazebos Population Per .
City of McHenry Village of Lake Zurich St. Charles Park District Belvidere Park District Village of Algonquin Sycamore Park District Huntley Park District (within boundary) Village of Lake in the Hills Average Huntley Park District (provided by HPD) Dundee Township Park District City of Woodstock Wauconda Park District Streamwood Park District Roselle Park District Bartlett Park District DeKalb Park District Crystal Lake Park District Cary Park District Rolling Meadows Park District
17 12 24 14 13 6 17 12 9.9 12 15 7 3 9 4 8 8 11 3 2
1,647 1,750 2,000 2,286 2,308 2,333 2,353 2,417 3,188 3,333 3,533 3,571 4,000 4,000 4,750 5,125 5,375 5,909 6,333 10,000
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SKATE FACILITIES
In the Chicagoland area, skate parks and in-line skating rinks continue to be optional amenities rather than required ones. Finding the right location and offering the right skate features contribute to the success of these amenities. The Huntley Park District provides one skate park, and Lake in the hills has one that is located within the HPD boundaries. Of the 17 park & recreation agencies in the comparison, six do not have a skate park or in-line facility. Of the 11 agencies with skate parks, the Streamwood Park District has four facilities, and Bartlett, DeKalb, Lake in the Hills, Rolling Meadows, and St. Charles each have two.
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Ice skating facilities come in many forms, including ponds, flooded tennis courts, flooded lawn depressions, and occasionally an actual ice rink. This diversity makes it very difficult to provide a meaningful comparison as some agencies offer two or three of these types. The Huntley Park District offers one location for ice skating, thereby being comparable to the other 17 agencies in the comparison. Six of the agencies offer no ice skating amenities. The average number of ice skating amenities in the 17 districts is 1.2, with Algonquin, McHenry, and St. Charles each offering three ice venues.
ICE SKATING
The comparative analysis shows that the Huntley Park District provides an amenity to population service ratio that generally meets or exceeds the averages of the comparative agencies for eight of the 12 amenities used for comparative purposes. Because of the overlap with the Villages of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin, those agencies also have many amenities in their parks that are within the boundaries of HPD. As a result, residents of HPD actually have greater averages than most of the other agencies, but with the caveat that those amenities located within the municipal boundaries of LITH and Algonquin are not open for use by HPD residents outside those municipalities. Certainly there are facilities and amenities provided in some area park districts that the Huntley Park District does not have. But at the same time HPD has some facilities, such as the Cosman Cultural Center, that are unique to HPD and do not have comparable offerings in other park & recreation agencies. Where these comparative findings are evaluated with the results of the Community Survey, opportunities and recommendations for new/expanded amenities are presented as appropriate.
CONCLUSIONS
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CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Park & Facility Evaluation
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The on-site evaluation of all HPD parks and facilities took place over a two month period in the summer of 2010. This evaluation provides the basis for formulating recommendations for improvements to each park and facility. As such, the documentation of conditions and amenities is a very important step in the comprehensive planning process.
INVENTORY & ASSESSMENT
Prior to initiation of the on-site evaluation, the background information of each property was researched through the HPD website, property maps and aerial photographs, and other HPD documentation. Maps and aerials of each park were printed and an inventory sheet prepared that was unique to each individual site. The inventory sheets listed facility name, address and acreage. A character section was used to record first impressions and the curb appeal of each park, questioning if this looks like somewhere I want to visit. Signage was evaluated for the condition, visibility and location of the park sign, and whether any off-site directional signage is seen in the neighborhood areas nearby (if appropriate to the park type). Landscaping and furnishings were evaluated along with the specific recreation amenities found on each individual park site. Checklist items for each amenity, landscape element and furnishing were listed under each heading. For example, the Basketball Court evaluation looks at play surface condition and material, fencing condition and material, background, and equipment condition (posts, backboards, nets, etc.). An average of 2-3 hours was spent on each park property and facility preparing a general inventory of amenities, assessing their condition, and noting potential improvements for each site. Existing conditions of site furnishings, recreation amenities, court surfaces and equipment, athletic fields, fencing, lawns, etc. were documented. The evaluation also included measuring some athletic fields to determine their use potential. Photographs were taken of each site, including general park views, specific amenity views, and detail photos of furnishings and problem areas. Maintenance of parks and facilities was also considered in the evaluation as maintenance can often be the cause of issues that require improvements. Maintenance recommendations are included as a part of the comprehensive plan where appropriate.
During the on-site inventory and analysis of HPD properties, a number of common opportunities for improving the properties were found that could be applied to parks and facilities throughout the District. There were also specific parks and facilities that should undergo a master planning process to make major modifications to the facilities and amenities on those properties. The District-wide recommendations for park improvements are presented on the following pages.
DISTRICT-WIDE RECOMMENDATIONS
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STANDARDIZATION OF SITE FURNISHINGS & AMENITIES
While each HPD property can have its own character or theme, there are many reasons for developing a standardized palette of certain furnishings and amenities. Standardization can provide a common look throughout the HPD system that presents an image that can be identified as a part of the Huntley Park District. Also, buying multiple units of a single item can often provide long-term cost savings to the District. The District has already been initiating this branding process to a degree with most park signs and furnishings showing this standardization. There are some existing HPD parks and facilities, however, which have multiple types of furnishings or materials, sometimes in close proximity to one another. This mixing of styles and materials can create a chaotic feeling and a definitive lack of aesthetics. Except for specific parks or locations (like the log cabin in Deicke Park), the following elements should be standardized for use on properties throughout the District and should all work together (style, materials and installation) to present a distinct image for the District that says quality.
Benches Picnic Tables Trash Receptacles Bicycle Racks Playground Edging Parking Lot Lighting Pedestrian Lighting Drinking Fountains
It is certainly appropriate for individual parks to project their own image and character rather than looking like every other park. But it is still important that the character of individual parks have some type of consistency. Within any given park, the design philosophy of using like materials and styles of elements to create an image for that park is important.
QUALITY MATERIALS
Providing quality is a philosophy that should be followed by any park agency. The Huntley Park District provides quality programming and has many quality parks and facilities. When selecting equipment, furnishings and amenities for the parks, it is important to consider aspects of the quality of those products and how they will meet the needs of the District. Are the materials and surfaces prone to vandalism? What is the life cycle of the product? Does the product require special maintenance in order to reach its maximum life cycle? Will the product hold up in this climate? Is the product safe? Does the product look like it is of high quality? These are just some of the questions that need to be asked and researched when making decisions about buying products for the parks and for determining their overall quality.
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While HPD strives to be environmentally conscious, utilizing recycled materials for site furnishings is still a quality question. While there may be some high quality recycled site furnishings available to meet the environmental philosophy of the District in this regard, many plastic benches and picnic tables currently being used in parks throughout the country do not exhibit a quality aesthetic, and they have a history of significant bowing within relatively short periods of time thus requiring earlier than normal replacement. HPD should research the availability of quality recycled site furnishings, but should not use any products that are not up to the quality standards the District should be instituting. HPD utilizes 55 gallon drums/barrels as trash cans at most of its parks and facilities. These barrels often detract from an otherwise very aesthetically pleasing setting and promote an image that does not spell quality. HPD should consider, over time, undergoing a systematic replacement of all barrels using a standardized receptacle throughout the system or developing an art-in-the-park program for painting the barrels with some theme for each location. Playground surfaces present an important component of quality in the parks. Poured/sprayed surfaces present the highest quality image while recycled rubberized or modified mulch products can also present a quality image. At the same time that the quality of the playground surfaces is being considered, ADA accessibility should also factor into the decision of which surfaces to use. The use of recycled shredded rubber surfaces or mulches creates an interesting conflict in meeting ADA and CPSP standards. While these mulches do meet ADA criteria, their accessibility rating is significantly higher when the material has been compacted. At the same time, this compaction reduces the ability to cushion falls. Only the poured/sprayed surfaces and the tiled surfaces fully meet both ADA and CPSP criteria. Cost considerations, of course, will be a primary consideration in determining what surface to use. The new Discovery Zone is the only playground in the HPD system that currently utilizes a poured surface. The District should always strive to use the best surfaces available given the budget for the project. Edging on playgrounds is not an element that is standard in HPD parks. The Discovery Zone, with concrete edges throughout, is the only playground in the HPD system that has any type of hard edging. This concrete edging can be flush-mounted to eliminate any access issues or trip hazards. Many play equipment companies also manufacture a plastic edging that many parks and recreation agencies use. This material is subject to cracking and sometimes creates a trip hazard around the perimeter as it is an abovegrade application only. Landscape timbers are also used by many agencies. These offer a better aesthetic quality than the plastic and can be flush to eliminate the trip hazard. The Huntley Park District should consider utilizing playground edging in certain locations, especially where the fiber mulch surface materials are adjacent to landscape mulch, sand or lawn areas where material migration is prevalent.
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Fencing is an element found in many parks for many different purposes. And it is an element that can significantly affect the character and quality of a park. HPD has a variety of fencing types and materials in use within its parks including split rail and chain link in different colors and forms. Those locations where wood fencing or decorative metal fencing is used project a character and quality that exceeds other parks. Galvanized chain link is a long-traditional standard for use on ball field backstops and fencing. Vinyl-coated chain link provides aesthetic and some safety attributes that make it preferable for use, with black and brown coated fencing the least obtrusive aesthetically, while also providing a backdrop that allows better visibility of baseballs, softballs and tennis balls. Replacement of existing galvanized fencing with vinyl-coated should be carried out as replacements come due. Quality can also extend to plant materials. Quality trees and shrubs not only produce a better aesthetic, but may also be healthier and have greater longevity. And the appropriate use of plant materials provides character to a park and can make improvements to the environment. Some nurseries will sell trees that may be designated as park grade. This often means that the trees do not have central leaders or have been over-pruned during their cultivation. Care should be given in utilizing these trees as future structural problems could manifest over time. With park and recreation agencies taking on a greater role as stewards of our natural resources, HPD should use plantings to enhance the environmental quality of the parks as well as enhancing the aesthetics of the parks.
Safety in HPD parks and facilities should always be a high priority, and the safety of its patrons is something that is evident in the everyday operations of the District. Safety concerns can be quite diverse and need addressing from a variety of perspectives. The few items that have been identified for improvement are diverse as well. Although the parks open and close with the phases of the sun, site lighting is still an important safety component in parks. The type and location of lighting is also an important safety consideration. Flood lighting in particular should not be angled outward as the glare caused by such lighting can, in itself, create unsafe conditions. HPD should review its site lighting annually and make sure that lighting is placed where it is needed. Site utilities often have access panels, manholes or other maintenance devices that were installed flush with the ground elevation but that have, over time, either risen above or sunk into the ground. Others have had covers installed that are hazards because they are raised or have a slotted grate that is dangerous to bicycles. These create trip hazards in lawns and paved areas that can be unsafe and be a liability. Ongoing maintenance should be completed to raise ground levels or add risers where they are needed and to replace any grates that are of unsafe design.
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
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Safety concerns at ball fields can exist that require attention to protect both the participants and the spectators. Fences in front of the dugouts and bleachers should all be high enough to protect those behind them as foul balls are a hazard to players and spectators. At parks where multiple ball fields are clustered, like Tomaso Sports Park, foul balls can cross to the spectator and dugout areas of the adjacent fields. While higher fencing will help with line drive type fouls, pop-ups can still be a problem. Some park agencies have installed an overhead mesh that covers those areas between the fields. This mesh also provides some level of shade and sun protection.
PARK DESIGN
All of the parks in the Huntley Park District have a variety of amenities and features that are of high quality and effectively create a great environment for users of the parks. The parks are much-used by the residents, and the community survey responses show a high level of satisfaction with the parks. There are, however, some design features that should be enhanced, simplified or even removed in order to reduce maintenance, create a better aesthetic, and create better access to amenities. Access to playgrounds and other amenities in some HPD parks is via a walkway that goes through the picnic shelter or gazebo. While this type of access may be considered a safety checkpoint, it can also be a problem if children or families going to a playground do not want to encroach on activities already taking place in the shelter. Alternative access is often still available from the main walkway, but requires crossing lawn or landscaped areas, an access that is apparent in the trampled condition of those lawns and planting beds. Consideration should be given to creating direct access to these amenities by adding paved paths from the main sidewalks into the amenity. Control points can be defined with landscaping and fencing to minimize direct access between non-compatible uses such as parking and playgrounds. Sand play areas are a part of almost every park in the HPD system. In a few instances, like Kiley Park and Ol Timers Park, the sand play areas are selfcontained and are separated from other activity areas. But in most cases, the sand play areas are directly adjacent to playgrounds, shelters, paths and planting beds where the migration of sand into/onto those areas creates excess maintenance requirements. Further, when the sand is on the walkways, there is an aesthetic issue, a potential safety issue and a perception that maintenance is lacking; even though maintenance may have been completed just minutes before. HPD should consider eliminating sand play from some of its parks especially those where material migration is a problem.
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Landscaped berms are a dominant feature in many HPD parks. Often used to buffer parking from the street or to separate park amenities/use areas, the berms can create a very nice aesthetic and functional feature. The landscape berms can also cause excess maintenance needs and create unsightly aesthetic and functional issues. The steep slopes of the berms are the biggest problem with erosion issues as mulch slides into the adjacent lawns or basketball courts. The resulting soil slump causes plantings to lose their footing and migrate downhill. Many plant materials have been displaced while others have become desiccated as water runs off the berms rather than soaking into the soil to feed the plants. Another problem is the smaller berm/landscape bed areas that are separated by small areas of lawn that require very detailed mowing. Consideration should be given to reducing the height or slopes of the berms, planting materials that will stabilize the slopes and consolidating the smaller planting berms/beds and creating flowing curved bedlines in order to make mowing easier.
As the Huntley Park District is preparing an ADA audit of its parks and facilities, it is anticipated that many improvements to accessibility will need to be considered. Many of the likely improvements will have to do with access routes to park amenities, athletic venues, and seating areas. HPD will need to consider these access guidelines as parks are redeveloped or improvements take place.
ADA GUIDELINES
PLAYGROUND DESIGN
There is a movement taking places that is geared toward combining play with nature. Prior to all the playground safety regulations being put into place, there were some designers who incorporated landscaping into the playground environment. The revitalized look into this design concept is called NatureGrounds. The idea is to integrate play equipment with the landscape to create a more balanced play and learning environment for children. Plant materials, including shade trees, are important components in the overall design of the playgrounds. HPD should consider designing to this program when playground replacements are needed and when new playgrounds are developed.
PARK & FACILITY ENHANCEMENTS
The following recommendations are based on opportunities for improvements on a Districtwide basis. It is recommended that these improvements be implemented over a three to ten year period to bring all Huntley Park District properties to the same standards in a relatively short period of time. It is important to first take the time to develop quality standardization of furnishings and materials before embarking on these improvements. Any recent upgrades to amenities may need to be revisited in 5-7 years to meet the new quality standards. While many of these are listed in the recommendations for individual parks, they should be considered system-wide.
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Park Amenities Replace picnic tables/benches and other site furnishings with those selected for branding of the District Add bicycle racks at all parks and facilities Trash receptacle replacements or art program Add paved aprons in front of all benches Add drinking fountains to parks near athletic fields/courts Utilize pump-style water faucets for maintenance only and add locks to eliminate use by park users
Landscape Improvements Shade trees in/around playgrounds Landscape areas within playgrounds Shade trees near spectator seating areas Edge planting beds and playgrounds to reduce material migration Low level landscape areas at park signs and other appropriate areas for seasonal interest/aesthetics Reduce berm slopes by top shaving or by extending widths of beds Consolidate smaller berm/landscape bed areas to simplify mowing Plant low-grow grasses or native materials in open passive areas to reduce mowing needs and add interest
ADA accessibility improvements Add paved base pads and access walks to athletic field bleachers and athletic court areas Add ADA picnic tables at all locations where there are/will be picnic tables Add paved aprons and access walks to benches, picnic tables and other use areas
Directional Signage Work with the Villages and IDOT to add directional street signage for more parks/facilities that cater to overall community interests Replace park signage not meeting current branding standards Add internal directional signage and additional historic/resource interpretive signage in parks where appropriate Consolidate signage where appropriate to eliminate confusion
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Athletic Fields/Courts Re-cut baseball/softball infields Add irrigation at heavily-used fields Replace fencing/backstops with black vinyl coated materials Initiate systematic improvements to all turfgrass areas Add concrete pads under team bench areas Add concrete pads under spectator seating areas with ADA walkways Add benches at athletic courts
NEW AMENITIES/REDEVELOPMENT MASTER PLANS
New amenities have been identified for possible addition to the Huntley Park District. Several parks are identified as needing more than simple playground replacement or walkway resurfacing. Two parks are identified as needing new master plans. Some possible pairings of park sites and new amenities are listed below.
New Master Plans o Cottontail Park o Ol Timers Park Tennis Court Site Options o Ol Timers Park o Warrington Park Splash Pad Site Options o Parisek Park o Ruth Family Park o Tures Park Native/Wildflower Meadow o Cottontail Park o Kiley Park o Ol Timers Park o Red Hawks Rest o Warrington Park Disc Golf o Warrington Park Concession/Toilet/Storage Building o Tomaso Sports Park o Warrington Park Add Playgrounds o Tomaso Sports Park o Warrington Park
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NEW FACILITIES
A variety of new facilities have been discussed during the visioning process that could be constructed on existing park sites or, more likely, on new park land as the District continues to grow. The results of the 2010 Community Survey show a wide ranging support for many of these facilities even in the current economy. As a result, it is recommended that viable locations of these facilities be considered as a land acquisition strategy is implemented. New facilities may include: With 43% of the survey respondents currently willing to support an indoor pool facility, this may be the highest priority future facility for the District as it seeks new sites for acquisition and development. While a variety of locations may be deemed viable, the ability to draw members from surrounding communities may direct location to a place where an existing market exists. With Algonquin having only an outdoor pool and Lake in the Hills having no aquatics facilities, locating a new indoor pool on the east side of the District will provide a ready market and allow the facility to be economically viable in a short period of time.
Indoor Swimming Pool
Field House/Indoor Sports Facility
This type facility will have a variety of options for placement within the District as the various sports organizations in the area will likely utilize the facility regardless of its location because of its need for year-round training and practice. It has been suggested that this facility could be built as an addition to the REC Center, occupying the parking lot east of the gymnasium area of the existing building. While this is a viable location, parking requirements will need to be considered as eliminating parking while adding a facility that draws more people could be a concern. Another alternative may be to include this facility as a part of a future new sports complex undertaken by the District. With 22% of survey respondents supporting this type facility, and wide support from stakeholders and other groups involved in the visioning process, an Indoor Sports Facility is a viable consideration for the future. An environmental center facility can be placed in any park. But when a site offers natural amenities that can be directly linked to the center and programs developed for the center, finding a location that can bring the natural and man-made elements together is the best scenario. This type site will also provide a great venue for outdoor wilderness activities. But with woodland areas at a premium in this farm country environment, HPD may need to look at other options for developing a nature center. Certainly there are wetland areas that could act as an outdoor laboratory for programs. Even parks like Cottontail and Red Hawks Rest border on scenic natural areas. Finding a similar park site not surrounded by residential development is one alternative for locating a nature center. The old quarry properties on the north side of the District could provide an interesting environment for a nature center. Another option is a collaborative effort with the McHenry County Conservation District or the Kane County Forest Preserve District, agencies that may be better able to provide appropriate lands for environmental education purposes. With approximately 28% of the survey respondents supporting this type facility, and numerous interests expressed in land preservation and outdoor adventure, a Nature Center will provide a good opportunity for the District to expand its programs and parks.
Nature/Environmental Center
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CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Park Assessment
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Each park has a variety of amenities and elements that were assessed during the detailed on-site inventory and assessment of the parks. In determining the overall quality of each park property, these factors have been rated based on their quality, quantity or ability to meet the needs of the community. As an example, if a park has a playground, ball field, soccer field, a variety of site furnishings, signage and landscape elements, each of those amenities/elements are evaluated and rated separately. The ratings range from excellent to poor and are based on a high standard of quality or perception. In order to maintain a common scale, a single evaluator prepared all of the park and facility assessments. There are common elements that were evaluated and considered for virtually every park or facility, including such things as the character of the park or facility, neighborhood access to the park, lawn/turf conditions and many other site features. Some of the amenities or elements are evaluated based on subjective criteria while others are objectively evaluated using quantitative and qualitative criteria. In some cases, only a single criterion is used in the evaluation while others require an evaluation of many elements. The criteria used for some of the commonly rated elements of the parks and facilities are described below.
Character is a measurement of the curb appeal of a park or facility, a first-impression on whether the site looks inviting and is aesthetically pleasing. Signage is reviewed for its visibility and location, condition of the park sign and, in some cases, whether off-site directional signage is provided when warranted. Access measures the functional ability to get to the site from surrounding neighborhoods. In most cases, Village sidewalks and crosswalks provide this accessibility. Landscaping ratings are based on the quality and quantity of plant materials, placement, seasonal interest, provision of shade, screening ability, and whether the scale of plantings is appropriate to the surroundings. Turf quality is evaluated for thickness, evenness, and consistency. This covers only the non-athletic field areas of the parks and facilities where lawns provide open space for active or passive recreation. Picnic areas are evaluated based on the condition and quality of the picnic tables, sun/shade options, accessibility of picnic areas, locations relative to other amenities, and quantity of picnic tables relative to the type and size of a park. Site Furnishings, such as benches, drinking fountains, trash receptacles, bike racks, and other similar elements are evaluated for the condition, quantity, and quantity of furnishings relative to the type and size of a park or facility. The use of consistent styles of furnishings in order to help brand the park or overall District is also considered.
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Playground ratings are based on a variety of components including the quality and condition of the equipment, the diversity of the play equipment, the type and quality of edging and surface materials, and the design/composition of the playground area. Tennis and basketball courts have similar criteria evaluated, including the type and condition of the surface, the structural quality of the surface, type and condition of fencing, equipment quality and condition, availability of seating and accessibility to the courts. The tennis court evaluation also looks at such things as net adjustability, player backdrop and lighting, when available. Ball fields also have numerous criteria in the rating evaluation including infield condition, infield erosion, turf condition, irrigation, fencing/backstop material and condition, team and spectator seating types and condition, accessibility and lighting. Soccer fields have similar criteria with goals replacing fencing/backstops in the evaluation.
The ratings developed during the inventory and assessment of each park and facility serve as the basis for many of the capital improvement recommendations presented in the Park Assessments and Facility Assessments. It is important to understand that a higher rating may be given an element based on things like diversity, overall accessibility or quality materials, yet still warrant immediate attention to correct deficient components. As such, the following key should be considered a general guideline, with the capital recommendations the basis for action. Excellent Very Good Good Fair Poor
RATING
DESCRIPTION Almost New Condition or Standards Exceeded Above Average Condition or Standards Met/Exceeded Average Condition with Most Standards Met Below Average with Attention Needed Soon Attention Required
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PRIORITIZATION OF RECOMMENDATIONS
The recommendations found associated with each of the Park Assessments have been prioritized to provide the basis of the Capital Improvements as well as maintenance intiatives. These recommendations are based on the inventory and assessment of each park and facility, findings from the visioning process, and on a general understanding of the funding opportunities that may be appropriate for future projects.
Recommendations identified as first priority should be initiated within the next two years. These priorities are deemed important because they represent current needs and initiatives as well as initiatives relative to safety.
Third priority recommendations present improvements that should be completed to expand the use of the park, or replacement of park amenities that are still viable, but need to be scheduled for replacement within this planning period.
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BORHART FAMILY PARK

9661 Abbey Road 5.8-Acre Neighborhood Park Seating Area Basketball Playground Toilet Pavilion Sand Play Parking Park Sign
Ball Field
Soccer/ Play Field
N
Located in the Covington Lakes neighborhood north
of Reed Road and east of Rt. 47, Borhart Family Park is surrounded by single-family residential, with a stormwater retention basin across Abbey Road. The park was constructed in 2005 to provide a variety of active and passive recreation amenities for the new residential area. There is a network of public sidewalks to access the park, with bituminous and gravel pathways through the park providing access to some, but not all, of the amenities. The layout of the internal pathways needs to be revisited, as the defined playground access is only through the picnic shelter. There is also a dead-end path near the basketball court, and no defined access to the court, bike rack or toilets. A 21-car parking area is located on the east side of the park, with adequate overflow parking available on Abbey Road. The ball field is utilized for both organized games and neighborhood pick-up games and is flexible for either baseball or softball use.
Curb Appeal Pedestrian Access Internal Access Parking Park Sign Site Furnishings Playground Sand Play Shelter Toilets Basketball Sitting Area Ball Field Soccer Field Athletic Turf Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance Excellent Excellent Fair Very Good Excellent Very Good Very Good Fair Very Good Fair Very Good Poor Very Good Good Good Fair Good Fair Good
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BORHART FAMILY PARK The small playground has a shade canopy and
offers a good mix of features for the 5-12 year old, with tot swings and a sand play area also provided. The sand area, playground surfacing, and planting mulch beds are not clearly defined, with each material spilling over into other areas and onto lawns and paved surfaces. The ball field/soccer field turf is uneven and has some weed growth. The basketball court has ponding in a couple of areas, with the adjacent mulched planting bed eroding onto the court. The picnic shelter gets significant use by neighborhood residents enjoying the playground, but is already showing rust on the steel posts. Site furnishings include a mix of brown metal/vinyl-coated picnic table and benches, trash barrels, an old-style bike rack, and a pump-style water hydrant. The small seating area at the west end needs significant improvement to both design and maintenance to make it a viable feature. The general lawn areas exhibit significant weed growth throughout the park. Landscaping is extensive around the perimeter and throughout the park. The steep slopes of the berms do cause erosion and encourage weed growth, with proximity of berms to each other and to active use areas causing many maintenance issues.
Recommendations 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 3
Fill/level athletic field turf areas Repair ball field infield Re-establish turfgrasses throughout park Utilize specialty paving in seating area Add planted islands within seating areas to reduce the scale of gravel surfaces Add landscaping at park sign Redesign/reshape berms & landscape areas to reduce slopes/erosion of beds Spade edge playground area and planting beds to contain mulch material Sand & repaint shelter posts Redesign/build pathways to provide appropriate access to all amenities Add paved aprons around benches Provide soccer goals that can be used for neighborhood games Sealcoat parking lot Rebuild/expand playground to include more 2-5 year old amenities 123
COTTONTAIL PARK
Bedford Drive & Bordeaux Drive 1.1-Acre Neighborhood Park
Park Sign Playground Sand Play
Shelter
Natural Area Picnic Kiosks
N
Cottontail Park is in the Southwind neighborhood
located north of Reed Road between Haligus Road and Lakewood Road. The park is surrounded by single-family residential on three sides, with a large natural wetland area to the south that creates the sense of a much larger park. Cottontail was built in 1998-99 and has had no major improvements or modifications since its construction. On-street parking is available, though the park is used mainly by neighborhood residents who come to enjoy the amenities and the great views into the open space wildlife habitat. There is a network of public sidewalks to access the park, with concrete paths through the park providing access to the playground area and shelter. The remainder of the park is open space, with some amenities accessible across lawn areas.
Curb Appeal Access Park Sign Site Furnishings Playground Sand Play Shelter Picnic Kiosks Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Natural Area Maintenance Excellent Excellent Good Good Fair Fair Good Fair Good Good Excellent Excellent Good
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COTTONTAIL PARK
of features for the 5-12 year old with swings provided for tots. The playground apparatus is at the end of its useful life and is in need of replacement. The playground mulch surfacing edges are not defined. A sand play area is clearly defined with landscape timbers, but sand still spills onto surrounding surfaces. The picnic shelter provides an excellent location to sit and enjoy the natural area and is enjoyed by many neighborhood residents. The shelter is original to the park and is showing signs of wear with roof replacement and painting of other surfaces needed. Site furnishings include a mix of wood/aluminum-framed picnic tables, fiberglass benches, trash barrels and a pump-style water lever that shows signs of being left on for extended periods. Two picnic table kiosks are located on the west side of the park. These kiosks are not ADA accessible and are in need of repair or replacement. The lawn areas exhibit some weed growth throughout the park. The landscaping includes numerous shade and evergreen trees, with shrub and perennial plantings at the sign and in pockets within the park. The size of some planting beds and extent of plantings creates a maintenance need that is relatively high for a park of this size and type. There are several bed areas that are barren and several plants that require pruning or replacement.
The playground area offers a good mix
Recommendations 1 Develop a new park master plan 1 Replace, expand and diversify 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 4 4
playground equipment to meet needs of the young neighborhood demographic Edge playground area and planting beds to contain mulch material Remove sand play area and expand/redesign seating area Replace shelter roof and repaint surfaces Remove picnic kiosks Replace picnic tables and benches with current District standards Repair/repaint park sign Re-establish channel and rip-rap bed at drainage structure Consolidate planting areas and select new materials that are less maintenance-intensive Add landscaping at park sign Add bicycle rack Add naturalizing plantings as transition to wetland area and surrounding drainage structure Add interpretive signs at natural area Consider ornamental gazebo on west end with access path from public sidewalk 125
DEICKE PARK
11419 South Route 47 24.5-Acre Community Park
Park Sign Deicke Building Log Cabin Playground Parking Shelter Shelter Volleyball Volleyball Pond Shelter REC Center Toilets Ball Field Parking Shelter Basketball Parking Discovery Zone
N
Deicke Park is the crown jewel of the Huntley
Very Good Fair Good Excellent Fair Fair Excellent Fair Very Good Good Very Good Very Good Poor Very Good Good Good Fair Fair Very Good Excellent Park District, with a variety of facilities and amenities that appeal to all ages and interests. Located on busy Rt.47 just southwest of the Village, the park is surrounded by open space and is home to festivals and events throughout the year. Facilities include the new Discovery Zone playground area, the Boy Scouts Log Cabin and the Deicke Recreation Center, which currently houses the Huntley Chamber of Commerce and the Districts Finance/HR Department. There are four parking areas serving various parts of the park with overflow event parking available in Warrington Park. The park is not easily accessible except via automobile, though planned improvements to Rt.47 include bicycle lanes and crosswalks that will provide better alternative access. Though somewhat nondescript from the highway, the entry is an impressive feature with its stone columns. A marquee sign provides passing drivers with information about activities and events.
Curb Appeal Access Parking Park Sign Wayfinding Site Furnishings Playground Sand Play Shelters Picnic Kiosks Toilets Basketball Sitting Area Ball Field Soccer Field Athletic Turf Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance 126
DEICKE PARK There are four picnic shelters in the park that offer a different experience of the park.
Two picnic kiosks are also available near the pond. The shaded playground adjacent to the log cabin offers a nice variety of features including a modern version of monkey bars and a small climbing wall. Landscaping includes a number of large shade and ornamental trees with planting beds in several areas of the park. Additional planting areas can benefit the aesthetics of the park. Lawn areas are generally good, though many weeds and barren areas do exist. Directional signage near the entry to the park is cluttered and needs to be a designed element. There are a variety of styles of site furnishings in the park, and standardization is needed to brand the historic nature of the park. Similarly, new historic lighting should be considered in the main use areas from the playground to the Discovery Zone. The ball field is generally in good condition as is the basketball court. The toilet facility on the south end is very good, while the outhouse facility behind the log cabin is architecturally interesting, but most visitors are unaware of its existance.
Recommendations . 1 Redesign and consolidate wayfinding signage 1 Redesign landscape at park sign/gates 1 Rebuild sand volleyball courts 1 Replace marquee sign on Rt.47 1 Remove dead trees and replace ornamental tree at ball 1 1 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 4
field Replace all picnic tables/benches to standardize the design and style Replace roof on Martines shelter near ball field Stabilize bank edges on pond Add ornamental landscaping to screen utility panels near Weltzien shelter Add plantings between parking and north playground area Add bicycle racks Replace picnic tables in picnic kiosks Add wayfinding and interpretive signage in wooded trail/playground area Replace galvanized basketball and ball field fencing with black vinyl coated Add historic-style lighting throughout the park to replace flood-lighting
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KILEY PARK
11745 Blue Bayous 9.6-Acre Neighborhood Park
Ball Field
Basketball Playground Gazebo Parking
Park Sign
Open Play
N
Park, located in the Wing Pointe neighborhood south of Dundee Road and east of Haligus Road, offers a variety of amenities and activities for neighborhood residents. The park is bordered by single and multi-family housing as well as a wetland detention area and open space. Constructed in 2002, the park includes a ball field that is used for baseball practices and for the Districts T-ball program. A 17-space parking lot serves the park, but even a single game or practice session can overflow the lot and cause the need for on-street parking. The close spacing of residential driveways limits spaces available and can cause conflicts. There is a good network of public sidewalks and a trail to access the park, with concrete paths into the park amenities. Only the ball field does not have an accessible path. It has been reported that soccer field users sometimes gain access to the field by cutting through residential properties between houses; though there is easy access via the community trail. 128
Kiley
Curb Appeal Access Parking Park Sign Site Furnishings Playground Sand Play Gazebo Toilets Basketball Ball Field Soccer Field Athletic Turf Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance Very Good Excellent Good Excellent Very Good Fair Good Very Good Fair Fair Good Good Very Good Fair Good Very Good Good
KILEY PARK The park has separate tot lot and 5-12 play areas that offer a fairly good mix of activities,
though the tot lot is very small considering the young family demographic in the neighborhood. The playground, at nine years old, is much used and definitely shows the wear of age. There is no shade in the playground area, and access to the tot lot is only through the gazebo or across lawn. This situation may be considered a safety feature but can also prevent access if the gazebo is in use. A sand play area is separate from the other playground activities, thus not causing the material migration found in other park sites. The metal-roofed gazebo adds a nice aesthetic in the park and offers a good place to sit and watch the children play. There are minor cracks in the concrete pad that will require future repair. Site furnishings include metal picnic tables matching the gazebo, trash barrels, and a bicycle rack correctly installed with access from both sides. All lawn areas exhibit some weed growth throughout the park with the athletic field turf being the best. The ball field is in need of work, as the fencing/backstop needs replacement and the infield area regraded and edged to eliminate the lip at the turf edge. The basketball court is in generally good condition, though its close proximity to the playground could be a user concern. The toilet area needs some upgrades to the screen walls and plantings. Site landscaping includes berms screening the parking and separating certain use areas. Several shrubs, especially adjacent to the parking lot, are in need of replacement. The tight meandering design of planting beds causes the need for extra maintenence care. Including shade trees at the ballfield and playground area and a more natural planting near the wetland, can provide a better landscape both functionally and aesthetically.
Recommendations . 1 Replace and add plantings in parking 1 Paint/repair toilet screen fence and 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 3 4
berm add shade trees adjacent Replace fencing mesh at ball field Recut edge and grade ball field infield Replace playground and expand tot lot area Add shade trees in/around playground area, basketball court and ball field Add access paths to all amenities that do not require gazebo pass-through Hold neighborhood meeting to discuss additional amenities and interests of residents Reshape planting bed edges for easier maintenance Repair gazebo base concrete Add naturalizing plantings as transition to wetland area, including elimination of lawns where athletics/field activities are not present
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OL TIMERS PARK
10700 Church Street 16.5-Acre Neighborhood Park
Shelter Park Sign
Volleyball Ball Field Soccer
Playground Parking
Maintenance Yard
N
Curb Appeal Access Parking Park Sign Site Furnishings Playground Sand Play Shelter Toilets Volleyball Ball Field Soccer Fields Athletic Turf Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance Fair Fair Fair Good Fair Fair Very Good Very Good Fair Fair Good Good Very Good Fair Good Good Good
Ol Timers Park is one of the older parks in the
District, dating back to 1984. The park is located just a few blocks north of the Village proper, and is bordered by mostly single and multi-family housing, with a construction firm on the south. The park has a ballfield used by Huntley Travel Baseball, and three soccer fields of which only the west field is being utilized due to poor conditions caused by flooding on the other field areas. The west field is used for both HPD Soccer and HPD Flag Football programs. The parking lot is sized to accommodate multi-game use and turnover if all the fields are able to be utilized again in the future. The parking lot has somewhat undefined edges and a dusty gravel surface that is in need of upgrade. The flagpole monument area is designed to create a circulation/drop-off area, but could be enhanced in size and landscape color for more interest and better scale. There is little public frontage from which views into the park are available. Public sidewalks in the residential areas surrounding most of the park provide access availability, but paths are only available from certain areas. There have been some incidents of private property being used to access the park from the north even though a path does provide direct access from Douglas Avenue.
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OL TIMERS PARK
for a new master plan to address drainage issues, review access into the park and determine other neighborhood recreational interests. The playground area includes areas for tots and 5-12 age groups, with a seperate sand play area that is well-defined. The tot lot area is very small for a park of this size, with all the play equipment near the end of its useful life and showing significant wear. There is fairly good shade in the playground area due to the size and age of surrounding trees. Playground design could be done to incorporate the trees for even greater shade if possible. The picnic shelter and pad are in very good condition considering their age, with a new set of matching picnic tables needed to promote District branding. Other site furnishings include one older bench, a pump-style water fountain and trash barrels. The athletic field turf is very good with limited weed growth, though the flood areas of the turf do have signifcant weeds as maintenance is very difficult in these areas. The non-athletic areas of lawn exhibit very limited weeds and clover. The ball field is in need of work, as the fencing/backstop needs to be replaced/upgraded, and the infield area regraded and edged. The volleyball court needs to have redefined edges and added sand base. The toilet area location should be better worked into the park activity areas. Pathways can also be reworked with an upgrade to a paved material needed to better define edges and access. Perimeter fencing is in poor condition and should be extended to eliminate neighborhood trespass issues. A new park sign to match standard HPD signage should be considered with more landscape to define the main park entry.
With the significant neighborhood and community use that this park gets, it is clearly due
Recommendations 1 Develop a new park master plan 1 Hold neighborhood meeting to discuss additional 1 Replace, expand and diversify playground equipment 1 Upgrade perimeter fencing and backstop/fencing to 1 Entend perimeter fencing along north property line 1 Replace park sign and enhance entry landscape 1 Replace picnic tables and benches with current District 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2
standards Rebuild walkways/paths throughout park Provide ADA accessible paths to park amenities, benches, etc. Add bicycle racks Add permanent soccer goal(s) for neighborhood use Consider adding tennis courts to the park Screen maintenance yard from park Dispose of excess materials from maintenance yard Add naturalizing plantings as transition to streambed black-vinyl-coated materials. amenities and interests of residents
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PARISEK PARK
10881 Allegheny Pass 4.2-Acre Neighborhood Park
Playground Park Sign Seating Area Garden Toilets Open Play Shelter Seating Area
Seating Area
N
Curb Appeal Access Park Sign Site Furnishings Playground Shelter Seating Areas Toilets Open Play Area Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance
Seating Area
HPD system that provides active recreation areas in the form of a playground and open play field areas but has the feel of a passive park with seating areas, gardens and open space. Located in the Georgian Place neighborhood, Parisek is bordered to the north and east by single family residential housing. Adjacent to the park on the west is the Huntley Area Public Library while across Main Street to the south is the Village of Huntley Municipal Complex. Originally built in 2004, the park provides a passive place that can be enjoyed by area agency and business workers as well as the residents. A public sidewalk leads to the park from the residential area with a bike/ped trail along Main Street providing access from the municipal complex side. There is, however, no direct access crossing Main Street or from the Library site, even though the council ring area was designed for Library use. Parking is available only on the residential neighborhood streets and through an agreement for the use of 12 spaces at the Library. From both Main Street and the Allegheny Pass frontage, park visibility is minimal due to buffering landscapes and narrow passages into the park. Fair Good Excellent Excellent Very Good Very Good Good Excellent Very Good Good Good Fair Good
Parisek Park is a unique neighborhood park in the
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PARISEK PARK There are a lot of great things about this park, and its potential to be a showplace is
outstanding. The extent of the landscape and garden areas in Parisek Park is significant, and with it the maintenance required to keep up with it. The main access off Allegheny is a narrow part of the park site, with work needed on the gravel path and weed growth to provide a more inviting entry. The gravel trails throughout the park tend to have undefined edges, with widths varying due to the migration of the gravel surface. The seating areas are large in scale with landscaping, including new shade trees, around the edges. The gravel surfaces in these areas have significant weed growth, partially due to lack of traffic and use. The idea of introducing planting beds with additional trees in the center of the seating areas, similar to a cul-de-sac island, could make them more inviting. The playground area is still in very good condition and offers a fairly good variety of play elements. Access to the playground is available through the picnic shelter or from the east side path, but no direct route from the nearest garden path is provided. The shelter is in very good condition with a few minor cracks in the concrete base. It is located to take advantage of garden/landscape views and proximity to the playground. Site furnishings are in very good condition and generally match the current HPD standards, except for an older style bike rack that is placed without an access path. The toilet facility is well-built and maintained. Several dead or barren shrubs and perennials are in evidence in the planting areas and need to be replaced. Maintenance of the extensive garden areas, paths and seating areas of this park is a significant burden on the Parks Department. In many agencies, it is done with a volunteer organization.
Recommendations . 1 Replace dead/barren plantings 1 Add planted islands within seating areas 1 2 2 3 3 3 4 4
to reduce the scale of gravel surfaces Utilize specialty paving in seating areas Add one permanent soccer goal for neighborhood use Consider adding walkway to Library Rebuild/pave walkways throughout park Replace bicycle rack with updated standard Provide direct paths to playground and bike rack Replace, expand and diversify playground equipment Consider addition of splash pad
133
RED HAWKS REST

10881 Edinburgh Lane 1.0-Acre Open Space Park
Gardens
Seating Area
Park Sign
Natural Buffer Plantings
N
Red Hawks Rest is classified as open space.
While the park proper is only one acre in size, the adjacent stormwater retention pond and natural buffer plantings seem to be an extension of the park. Located in the Covington Lakes neighborhood north of Reed Road and east of Rt. 47, the park borders on residential properties to the north and east with ponds to the west and across the road to the south. Neighborhood access is excellent, with a network of public sidewalks throughout the subdivision and a public trail providing direct access into and through the park. On-street parking is readily available.
Pond
Curb Appeal Access Park Sign Interpretive Sign Seating Area Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance Excellent Excellent Excellent Excellent Excellent Fair Very Good Very Good Very Good
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RED HAWKS REST

residents to enjoy on their walks. The creative integration of the stone circle with a varied landscape and views makes this an excellent passive recreation park. A circular cobblepaver walk is surrounded by large limestone blocks placed in varying heights that can be used for seating or to be climbed on. Benches are also integrated into the design for visitors wanting a more comfortable place to sit. The landscape is a mix of native and ornamental plantings that provide significant color and texture through all seasons. There is weed growth in the planting beds and circle paving, with several barren areas in the landscape; some caused by visitors cutting corners walking into the circle and some by the erosion and dryness of the steep berm surrounding the circle. The park sign is placed outside the planting beds, adding to the already significant maintenance requirements presented at this park. The lawn area exhibits significant weed and clover growth and was extremely dry when the review took place. Consideration should be given to modifing some landscape features of the site for easier and reduced maintenance. This is another park that might benefit from a garden club or other volunteer group assisting with the significant ongoing maintenance needs.
This small passive park, built in 2005, has quickly become a favorite stop for neighborhood
Recommendations . 1 Extend planting beds out away from

the stone circle to reduce the slope of the berms and incorporate the park sign into the planting beds Plant traffic corner areas with stepable plantings that can absorb the impact Replace dead/barren plantings Consider adding a few trees to the plantings to provide shade in some of the circle Determine intended use of lawn areas and plant accordingly, with low-grow grasses or native meadow one possible solution for the area Add paved apron at bench outside circle to meet ADA Add trash can at some appropriate location where it will not conflict with the aesthetic of the park
1 1 1 1
1 1
135
RUTH FAMILY PARK

10370 Aldridge Drive 4.6-Acre Neighborhood Park
Ball Field
Basketball Soccer Field Playground Sand Play Toilets Shelter Parking Park Sign
N
Ruth
Family Park, located in the Northbridge neighborhood north of Algonquin Road just east of Pinecrest Golf Club, was constructed in 2005 and is bordered on all sides by single family housing. The park includes a ball field that is used for the Districts Girls Softball program and an overlapping field that is used for flag football, soccer and rugby. A 33-space parking lot serves the park and on-street parking is available along three bordering streets. The parking lot is striped with seven-foot wide spaces which is smaller than is considered standard. There is a good network of public sidewalks that border two sides of the park, with bike/ped trails providing access through the north and south sides of the park. The ball field is the only park amenity that does not have an accessible path. Access to the playground and sand play area is through the shelter with no direct access provided.
Curb Appeal Access Parking Park Sign Site Furnishings Playground Sand Play Shelter Toilets Basketball Ball Field Soccer Fields Athletic Turf Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance Excellent Excellent Good Excellent Very Good Excellent Poor Very Good Fair Good Good Good Good Fair Good Excellent Good
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RUTH FAMILY PARK The playground area has a few unique features including the cable climbing apparatus that
is a take-off on the old-style monkey bars. Additional 2-5 age equipment should be designed to meet the young family demographics of the neighborhood. The playground edge and the sand play edge are not well-defined with material migration to all adjacent surfaces. Both the playground and sand play area include tot picnic tables. When replacement/redesign is in order, the scale of the playground area could include shade trees integrated into the design for more immediate shade availablility. The picnic shelter and pad are in very good condition, though the eave boards have weathered significantly in a short period of time. Site furnishings include metal picnic tables, a drinking fountain, trash barrels, and several benches throughout the park. Several of the benches are located along the paths, facing away from the paths toward the playground areas, and others are placed in the lawns. All of the benches are placed over a gravel base that should be upgraded to match the paved surfaces in order to provide better access, and a better aesthetic. The ball field is in generally good condition with the infield area needing some work to eliminate the lip at the turf edge. The basketball court is in generally good condition, with a couple of cracks and paint chipping on the court surface. The toilet area needs some upgrades to the screen walls and plantings. Site landscaping includes lots of newer shade trees, berms separating use areas and screening. The addition of shade trees behind the ball field backstop can provide shade to participants and spectators alike. The steepness of some of the berms has caused erosion, weed growth, and plant dessication to be in evidence. Planting beds could also be combined to reduce mowing difficulty between numerous individual beds. Weed growth is a critical issue throughout the park that is in need of resolution.
Recommendations . 1 Undertake a program to eradicate 1 Restripe parking lot to meet Village 1 1 1 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 4

weeds throughout the park parking standards Paint/stain eaves on picnic shelter Re-cut edge and grade ball field infield Add shade trees behind the ball field Repair/resurface basketball court Edge playground and sand play areas to eliminate material migration Re-shape planting berms and combine bed edges for easier maintenance Pave accessible path and aprons to all benches Add access paths to all amenities that do not require gazebo passthrough Remove arborvitae on south side of toilets and plant shade trees and ornamental shrubs/grasses Eliminate sand play and utilize this area for tot lot apparatus or Consider addition of Splash Pad 137
TOMASO SPORTS PARK

11950 Ackman Road 38.0-Acre Community Park Park Sign Soccer Field Soccer Field Maintenance Building Soccer Field
N
Ball Field
Soccer Field
Parking
Ball Field Sand Play Baseball Feature Ball Field
Soccer Field Soccer Field
Tent Toilets Soccer Field Future Playground Soccer Field
Ball Field
Ball Field
Ball Field
omaso Sports Park is the Huntley Park Districts newest community park, providing athletic facilities Curb Appeal Very Good to meet the growing sports needs of the community. Access Excellent Located at the north end of the Talamore Parking Very Good neighborhood, this 2006 park includes eight soccer Park Sign Excellent fields and six ball fields that are used by a variety of Sand Play Good affilated athletic groups and HPD programs. Heat Tent Shelter Fair United Soccer utilizes all of the soccer fields, sharing Toilets Fair six of the fields with HPD Soccer programs. The Ball Fields Excellent Travel Team Baseball is one of four groups using the Soccer Fields Excellent ball fields in the park along with HPD Girls Softball, Athletic Turf Excellent HPD T-Ball and HPD Senior Softball. This many fields Lawns Poor at one location allows better group coordination and Paths/Trails Very Good focused maintenance and provides a venue for Maintenance Excellent hosting tournament events. The park is accessed off Ackman Road with on-site surface parking available for 172 vehicles and grass parking for an additional 60-75. Pedestrian access into the park is provided via four walkways that connect to the sidewalk along Ackman Road. Internal walkways loop the ball field area and soccer area providing excellent access to virtually all the sports venue.
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TOMASO SPORTS PARK

elements will turn this from an excellent 1 Install playground sports park into an outstanding one. The 1 Work with Village/IDOT to install playground, lighting and other elements at wayfinding signage on Route 47 Tomaso are needed to meet existing community needs and expectations. With six 1 Construct toilet/concession building ball fields, each has its own nuances that 2 Add overhead mesh between grouped make it different. All the ballfields are ball fields to provide filtered shade generally in excellent condition, with few and protect against foul balls weeds, few bare areas, well-defined infields, 2 Install parking lot landscape and quality fencing. Field E is sloped 2 Install grass pavers in overflow parking downhill from home plate to center field area slightly more than is optimal, but drainage 2 Install shade trees in lawn areas patterns may have dictated this vertical behind backstops layout. The soccer fields are also in excellent 2 Screen maintenance building condition overall, with only a few areas of 2 Install lights on athletic fields turf needing fill/repair, and good quality 2 Add bike racks goals. The trail system is made up of paved 3 Add smaller version of Tomaso Park trails internal to the park and gravel on the sign and gateway landscaping at perimeter. As development of the park Talamore pedestrian entry progresses, all the trails should be paved to 3 Pave all paths/trails throughout the continue the quality presentation and ease of park maintenance. A toilet building and 4 Revisit grades on ball field E to reduce concessions will be critical in the short term, center field depression as porta-potties and wheeled concessions do 4 Construct Field Turf fields not meet the needs when the park is at or near capacity. Even though the park is of excellent quality and is filling the need of the community, it still has an unfinished feel. Landscaping the parking lot, screening the maintenance building, providing shade in appropriate places and creating a small gateway at the Talimore entry will collectively help give the park a more finished feel, with other improvements/enhancements over time.
Completion of the unfinished master plan
Recommendations
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TURES PARK
10251 Fleetwood Street 10.4-Acre Neighborhood Park
Basketball Parking Playground Park Sign Shelter Sand Play Football Field Ball Field
N
Tures Park, located in the Heritage neighborhood south of Main Street and east of Haligus
Road, offers a good variety of traditional amenities and activities. The park is bordered by single-family housing to the north and east, a stormwater retention pond to the west and open space on the south. Constructed in 2003, the park includes a ball field that is used for the HPD Girls Softball program and a football field for HPD Flag Football. The open field area has also been in use for soccer and rugby. A 13-space parking lot serves the park, with parking also available on-street in front of the park and the detention pond. There is a public sidewalk Conditions Assessment along the front of the park, with a trail looping the Curb Appeal Very Good park and connecting, between homes, to Fleetwood Access Excellent Street on the east. The shelter is the only amenity Parking Very Good with a direct walkway connection within the park. Park Sign Very Good Site Furnishings Playground Sand Play Shelter Toilets Basketball Ball Field Soccer Fields Athletic Turf Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance Good Very Good Poor Very Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Very Good
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TURES PARK
working toward District-wide ADA compliance. The playground areas, basketball, ball field, benches, and toilet all need direct access. The playground area has some nice features, but lacks diversity in providing adequate tot lot apparatus. The playground edge and the sand play edge are not well-defined, with material migration to all adjacent surfaces. Young shade trees have been planted adjacent to the playground, with greater integration possible when the playground is due for replacement. The picnic shelter is still in very good condition, with only minor cracks in the concrete base. Site furnishings include metal picnic tables, trash barrels, and benches which are placed over a gravel base in lawn areas. The basketball court is in generally good condition with its non-square shape an interesting anomaly. Lawn areas exhibit weed growth throughout the park with the athletic field turf being the best. The ball field is in good condition with resurfacing/edging of the infield due within a few years. Site landscaping is generally good with some modifications needed to help reduce maintenance. There is weed growth in many planting beds along with some barren areas and trees/shrubs that require pruning. The trees/shrubs planted in individual beds only a few feet from each other cause the need for excess maintenance care. More shade trees, especially at the ball field and basketball court, would be a nice addition.
Accessible routes to the park amenities are one of the most important needs at this park in
Recommendations . 1 Undertake a program to eradicate weeds 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 4
throughout the park Repair water fountain to eliminate spray Repair/replace warped picnic table Add access paths to all park amenities Prune trees and replace dead trees Add new plantings to park sign and rules sign areas Edge playground and sand play areas to eliminate material migration Recut edge and grade ball field infield surface Resurface and square off basketball court Add shade trees in/around playground area, basketball court and ball field Resurface parking lot Add permanent soccer goal(s) for neighborhood use Reshape/combine planting bed edges for easier maintenance Replace playground and expand tot lot area Eliminate sand play and utilize this area for tot lot apparatus Repair shelter base concrete Consider addition of splash pad
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WARRINGTON PARK
12209 West Main Street 62.0-Acre Community Park Parking REC Parking Center Pond Parking Pond Park Sign Soccer Fields Parking Parking Ball Field Sun Valley Farm Parking Ball Fields
Playground Volleyball
Ball Field
Stingray Bay Aquatic Center
Shelter
Cosman Cultural Center, Stingray Bay Aquatic Center, and Sun Valley Farm. The park is partially bordered by single-family homes in the West Main Street neighborhood to the northeast and the Lions Chase neighborhood to the west. Deicke Park borders Warrington on the east with farmland to the northwest and the south. Constructed in 1999, the park includes five ball fields designed for and used by Huntley Youth Baseball Little League and four soccer fields that are used by HPD Soccer and Flag Football. The park can be accessed off Main Street or Mill Street, both of which connect to Rt. 47. Parking is available for 450 vehicles divided into six different lots. The small lot east of the REC Center is used for employee parking, with the service drive used to accommodate additional vehicles. Because this is a destination park, pedestrian access Conditions Assessment into the park is somewhat limited, but still very good. There are neighborhood sidewalks linking the park Curb Appeal Excellent from both residential areas and multiple paths Access Very Good coming from Deike Park. Residents of Del Webbs Parking Very Good Sun City have expressed interest in a path that will Park Sign Very Good link to their community. Such access is possible Site Furnishings Very Good utilizing the existing pathway through Lions Gate Playground Fair and crossing the stream/natural resource area, or Shelter Very Good following a future extension of Kreutzer Road. Toilets Fair Ball Fields Soccer Fields Athletic Turf Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance Excellent Very Good Very Good Good Very Good Very Good Very Good
Betsey Warrington Park is an active recreation park that is also home to the REC Center,
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WARRINGTON PARK
toward offering amenities and facilities common to the entire community, with little on a neighborhood park level. Deicke Park next door provides the neighborhood park-type amenities that serve the nearby residential neighborhoods. There is a very small playground area just east of the sand volleyball court within Stingray Bay. This playground is used very little, as it sits high above the ball fields and outside the pool fenceline with no pathway leading to it. The equipment is not very diverse and somewhat outdated. Consideration should be given to providing better access to this playground and to building a new playground to serve families at the two ball fields in the center of the park. Site furnishings are limited to the picnic tables in the shelter and trash cans placed throughout the park. All lawn areas exhibit some weed growth throughout the park, with the athletic field turf being the best and remote areas the detention pond at Main Street exhibiting the most weed growth. The edges of this pond also show erosion and slumping, with stabilization and buffer plantings needed to address the issues long-term. The ball fields are generally in excellent condition, with the soccer field area generally very good. Site landscaping is very good, with some modifications needed in parking lot beds to replace dead materials, fill in barren spots and ensure safe visibility. There is also some weed growth in many planting beds. More shade trees should be added especially behind the ball fields.
Warrington is the central hub of the Huntley Park District and is geared almost entirely
Recommendations 1 Replace dead plant materials in 1 Add accessible path to existing

parking lot beds playground serving south ball fields
2 Provide ADA accessible paths to ball 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 4 4
field bleacher areas and to soccer fields Add 18-hole disc golf course using shelter area as starting point for nine holes north and nine holes south Add lights to ball fields at Stingray Bay Add new playground between REC Center parking area and ball fields Add shade tree grove between ball fields nearest REC Center Consider adding tennis courts just south of Stingray Bay parking or near shelter parking Repair/reseal parking lots and Lois Lane Increase shelter area parking for soccer use Stabilize pond edges and create a nomow buffer zone of natural plants and grasses Build concession/toilet/storage building to serve ball field/soccer area Add second park sign, or wayfinding sign, at Rt.47 and Mill Street 143
WEISS PARK
Bennington Drive at York Road 4.6-Acre Neighborhood Park
Basketball Parking Gazebo Playground Ball Field Skate Park
Ball Field
N
eiss Park, located in the Southwind neighborhood north of Reed Road and east of Haligus Road, offers a good variety of amenities and activities for neighborhood residents. The park is bordered entirely by single-family housing. Constructed in 2001, the park includes two ball fields that are used for Huntley Youth Baseball Little League and for the Districts Softball and T-ball programs. A 22-space parking lot serves the park with overflow available along some of the residential streets. However, the close spacing of residential driveways limits spaces available and can cause conflicts. The end spaces in the parking lot can be difficult to exit due to the dead-end nature of the lot. There is a good network of public sidewalks and a trail to access the park with paved and gravel paths into the park amenities. The entire perimeter path is gravel. Defined access to the playgrounds and sand play area is through the gazebo with no direct access provided. All of the trails need to be re-built with paving a recommended upgrade throughout the park. Overall, the park is in very good condition for a ten-year-old facility. 144
Curb Appeal Access Parking Park Sign Site Furnishings Playground Sand Play Gazebo Toilets Basketball Skate Park Ball Fields Soccer Fields Athletic Turf Lawns Landscaping Paths/Trails Maintenance Excellent Excellent Very Good Very Good Very Good Good Good Excellent Very Good Very Good Good Good Good Very Good Good Very Good Very Good Very Good
WEISS PARK
mix of activities. The playground, at ten years old, shows some signs of wear and should be updated within a few years. This playground/gazebo configuration may be a good candidate to design with an integrated landscape. A sand play area is adjacent to the tot lot area, with an edging that seems to separate the sand from the play surface fairly well. Where the planting beds and playground mulch come together, however, it is difficult to distinguish between the two surfaces. The metal-roofed gazebo adds a great aesthetic in the park and will need some painting soon to maintain this aesthetic. Site furnishings include metal picnic tables matching the gazebo, trash barrels, benches, and bicycle racks. The balls fields are generally in good condition with minor fencing maintenance, infield maintenance, and weed control needed. The soccer field is also in very good condition, with all athletic turf areas exhibiting limited weed and clover growth. The basketball court is in generally good condition, though there is significant staining of the surface. The skate park is in good condition. Users do move things around from time to time to meet their staking preferences; a condition that should be monitored regularly for safety. The toilet facility is in very good condition. Common lawn areas exhibit some weed growth throughout the park, which is significant in some areas. Site landscaping is nicely done and has a good textural variety and lots of color in some areas.
The Park has a tot lot and 5-12 play area separated by the gazebo. There is a fairly good
Recommendations 1 Undertake a program to eradicate 1
1 2 2 3 3 3
weeds throughout the park Edge playground and planting bed mulch areas to create clear separation and eliminate material migration Sand/paint gazebo posts Recut edge and grade ball field infield surface Resurface parking lot Rebuild/pave all paths, and include direct access to the playground areas Add permanent soccer goal for neighborhood use Replace playground and tot lot, and consider a Nature Play type design with direct access from pathways
145
146
CHAPTER
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Facility Assessment
FACILITY EVALUATION CRITERIA
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FACILITY ASSESSMENT
Huntley Park District recreation facilities provide unique services and amenities for the residents of the community. Each facility was evaluated during the detailed on-site inventory and assessment of the parks, with a focus on how the facilities work operationally. Programmatic and capital evaluations were also completed in a general manner that provides an overview of facility needs and recommendations. Unlike the park assessments, no condition ratings are included here as most of the facilities are relatively new and are on a general timetable for replacements of major systems and furnishings. Facility recommendations are prioritized to provide the basis of the capital improvements, maintenance intiatives and operational modifications that may involve a change of use, expansion or other policy-related initiatives. These recommendations are based on the inventory and assessment of each facility, findings from the visioning process, and on a general understanding of the funding opportunities that may be appropriate for future projects.
OPERATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The operational recommendations identify modifications to current facilities that change the use of space to provide more efficient operations, programs, and services. These recommendations will require additional first priority recommendations (see below) that will allow these spaces to be utilized in the manner described.
Recommendations identified as first priority should be initiated within the next two years. These priorities are deemed important because they represent current needs and initiatives as well as initiatives relative to safety. Others are attached to operational modifications that are needed to prepare spaces for new programmed uses.
Third priority recommendations present improvements that should be completed to expand the use of a facility, or replacement of facility amenities/finishes that are still viable but need to be scheduled for replacement within this planning period.
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PINECREST GOLF CLUB

11220 Algonquin Road 130-Acre Special Use Site
Pinecrest Golf Club, designed by Ted Locke, opened in 1972, and was purchased by the
Huntley Park District in June of 2003. The District initiated renovations to the course and clubhouse with the new clubhouse facility opening in 2008. The clubhouse includes a pro shop, the Pinecrest Restaurant, a snack bar, meeting rooms, and maintenance/storage facilities. There is an outdoor deck overlooking the practice green with views across many areas of the course. The course is an 18-hole, 6,604-yard par 72 course with a rating of 71.5. There are 63 sand bunkers and five lakes on the course, which is very well maintained and has very high use by residents and visitors. Several leagues play here, and the Club offers group and private lessons for all ability levels. The practice facility includes a driving range with three target greens, a practice green, and a chipping green with bunker.
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PINECREST GOLF CLUB

The irrigation system is original to the course and, along with the current shallow wells and pump station, will need to be replaced soon. The open air cart storage area causes carts to be wet with dew/frost in mornings causing added prep as golfers arrive. The 1988 maintenance building still functions well, though a maintenance lift will be helpful for working on equipment. Conversion of the fairways from Bluegrass to Bentgrass is being considered throughout the course as a phased improvement. While new landscaping was installed with the renovation of the clubhouse, other landscape improvements throughout the course will improve the overall aesthetic of the course. Ongoing modifications of tee configurations, bunker locations, and landscape elements can keep the course fresh and challenging for golfers.
Recommendations 1 Hole by Hole Improvements

#1 Extend main tee to service road #4 Add new blue tee, move toilets & prune trees to accommodate tee location #5 New tee designations #6 New tee designations #7 New tee designations #9 New tee designations #10 New tee designations #12 Remove north bunker & build new bunker in center of fairway adds character to hole #13 New tee designations #14 Add series of bunkers on right side of fairway #15 New tee designations #16 New tee designations #17 New tee designations #18 New tee designations New irrigation system New deep well New pump station New maintenance lift for equipment Rebuild bridge on #1 Fairway turf conversion (gradual) Landscape improvements at hole markers, bridges and other key visible areas to improve aesthetics Cart storage area canopy & electrical upgrade 151
1 1 1 1 1 2 2 4
DEICKE RECREATION CENTER

administration office and is currently home to the Districts Finance Department and to the Greater Huntley Chamber of Commerce. The main entry opens onto a foyer, with a reception and office area to the right, and a meeting room and a multi-use space to the left and rear. This space also has a small galley kitchen area. The HPD offices can be entered from the foyer but also have a separate entry on the south side of the building. This space includes three small offices and a general area with traditional office cubicles. The building also includes restrooms and a small storage/maintenance area with garage door access. With the Chamber moving to new offices, HPD is free to explore new options for use of the building. Consideration is being given to a variety of uses, including a teen center, event and meeting space, HPD programs and use by area non-profit agencies. Consideration is also being given to moving the Finance Department into the REC Center to eliminate the inefficiencies of being separated from the other HPD department functions. Future uses will need to consider location, access, and functional use of the space. Because Deicke Park is a destination-type park, and is located on the busy Route 47 corridor, use as a teen center may not be the best choice. Use by non-profits for offices will require consideration of the existing signage/use conflicts.
Deicke Recreation Center is the former District
Recommendations Move Finance Department to REC Center Offer finance area as a potential non-profit office space 1 Renovate lobby, multi-purpose space, meeting room and Chamber area to 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
152
accommodate HPD programs as well as night/weekend meeting/event rentals Clean & paint all areas Renovate/upgrade kitchen area Upgrade flooring throughout Upgrade window treatments in event/meeting spaces Install alternative lighting in event/meeting spaces Install audio/visual system in event/meeting spaces Install audio system in multi-purpose space Stock/provide flexible meeting/event furnishings and dcor Reconfigure parking for ADA compliance
DEICKE LOG CABIN
Boy Scouts. Reconstructed in Deicke Park approximately 70 years later, the cabin was moved and rebuilt by volunteers using more modern construction techniques to help ensure its longevity. The cabin, and adjacent outhouse, presents an interesting historical component to the park. Though the log cabin is little used, the unique image of this building draws people to it who visit the park. The inside of the cabin has a small fireplace and picnic tables for use by groups. The outhouse adjacent to the cabin is a working pit toilet. While it has a lot of architectural character, there are issues with trash, pumping, and odors that need to be addressed.
The log cabin in Deicke Park was originally built in Donahoes Woods in the 1920s by the
Recommendations 1 1 1
Collaborate with the Huntley Historical Society in developing historical exhibits in the cabin Consider HHS use of the property for conducting tours/exhibits Replace picnic tables with allwooden tables Fill toilet pit and seal outhouse structure to maintain as a complement to the log cabin Add portable toilets with fencing and landscape along trail, and provide wayfinding signage near playground and cabin Add interpretive signage and photos inside the cabin 153
DEICKE DISCOVERY ZONE

Opened in 2010, Deicke Discovery Zone is a
playground, yet so much more. The Discovery Zone was designed to provide a play experience that includes sights, sounds, and activities for children of all ability levels. Each area has a theme ranging from space exploration to music, that is also identified in the poured-in-place playground surface. The entry has a grand lighted sign above and a compass paving pattern below. The playground includes an area that replicates the Village of Huntley, with a barber shop, Dairy Mart and police station, along with a mural of the Village Green. There is a large music-themed tot lot area in the center of the playground. The Bankshot basketball area has 14 hoops, some of which are almost impossible not to score. A large chalkboard provides children with an opportunity to show their artistic side, while remote speakers allow children in different parts of the playground to communicate with each other. There are landscaped beds with ornamental grasses and pear trees, and some shade provided by the large trees at the perimeter of the playground. Picnic tables, sculpture, and seating areas add to the overall childrens discovery environment. Visibility within the playground is excellent for parents keeping track of their children.
Recommendations 1 Consider shade trees in place of
pears should replacement become necessary and shade structure(s) in high use areas 1 Increase landscape maintenance to eliminate weeds, prune dead branches, and fill barren planting bed areas.
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STINGRAY BAY FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER

tingray Bay opened in June of 2002 to provide aquatic recreation to residents of the District and visitors. The aquatic facility includes two water slides, a zero depth beach area, a six-lane competition pool, diving boards and other features for children and adults. Other amenities include a large sun deck, open lawn areas, a picnic area, sand volleyball, and a large sand play area located well away from the pool to minimize sand migration. The aquatic center building provides restroom and locker room facilities, a reception desk, a snack bar, and staff offices. The existing facility is a compact and efficient design that places all the aquatic features within a single system. The aquatics mechanical system is currently at 75% capacity thus allowing for expansion/additional amenities to be considered. Because of the existing layout, any expansion will likely be a stand-alone feature or will require relocation of other amenities within the facility. At 10 years of age, the facility is still in very good condition given the high use that it receives during summer months. Season Pass holders surveyed give Stingray Bay very high marks in all categories from safety to staff and from cleanliness to amenities. Lazy river Recommendations
In Warrington Park 12219 Lois Lane
2 Add a new Therapy pool playground within the existing fence line splash 2 Add sound system improvements 3 Add a half-pipe water slide or other active water play structure that will appeal to a wide cross-section of the public; including teens and adults 3 Add climbing wall for teens/adults 3 Identify and utilize green technologies to power aquatics systems and provide electricity to facility, including a passive thermal solar heating system, solar panels and/or wind turbines
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REC CENTER
In Warrington Park 12015 Mill Street
lucky to be able to acquire a former public school building to convert into a recreation center. The REC Center opened in April of 2005 in the former Huntley High School building, which was purchased by the District and renovated/expanded to meet the recreational needs of the community. The REC Center includes the Districts administrative offices, program registration office, and maintenance facility. There is an abundance of storage available in different locations throughout the building. Overall the REC Center is in excellent condition and continues to meet community needs. Each area of the facility has a very different feel with opportunities for upgrades to add interest in some areas. The main foyer is nicely designed with earth-tone stone walls and flooring adding warmth. The area is used as a lobby for the Cosman Cultural Center and includes a coatroom and a production kiosk. The Cosman provides a dance studio and a performing arts theater with seating for 286 patrons. The theater is used by the Greenroom Productions to stage their annual theater season as well as by a church group and various other community and HPD programs. The dance studio has a viewing gallery with mirrored glass.
Like many park and recreation agencies across the country, the Huntley Park District was
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REC CENTER
The registration offices off the lobby are open and well-lighted with the Grand Hall offering views into the gymnasium, vending machines, and a gallery area for rotating art exhibits. The gymnasium is used for indoor athletic programs including basketball, volleyball, and pickleball. The gymnasium has its own lobby area on the lower level which is where locker room facilities, restrooms, and storage facilities are located. The Fitness Center offers a variety of fitness equipment and programs to the community at affordable fees, and offers the Kids Club Babysitting for Fitness Center patrons. The Senior Lounge, with an activity area and pool table, is located adjacent to the maintenance area and doubles as a maintenance staff area. The old school provides typical classroom environment for HPD programs, including arts & crafts programs and Seedlings Pre-School, which has a dedicated playground area. There is also an outdoor courtyard area that provides light into classrooms, but is otherwise not utilized. The cafeteria space includes a full kitchen and is utilized for programs, senior events, and as a rental space. The Recreation Department offices are also located here, off the old school entry foyer, where parents often wait for their children at the end of their programs.
Recommendations 1 2 2 2
3 4
Install a new computer system with new server(s) and integrated software Convert Locust Room to offices for Finance Department Add enclosed offices and cubicle spaces to the Locust Room Redevelop courtyard with pavers, large planters and specialty furnishings Redesign Mill Street recreation lobby to better accommodate traffic and waiting parents Phase the addition of park site plans, photos, art, murals and other recreation-related dcor throughout the building especially in the Grand Hall, lower lobby, Mill Street lobby, and Dance Studio corridor Redevelop Miss Connies Playground utilizing Naturegrounds techniques for integrating plantings and shade trees into the playground Phase in rooftop wind/solar components as well as solar outdoor lighting 157
SUN VALLEY FARM

In Warrington Park 12209 West Main Street Deicke Farmstead on West Main at the entry to Warrington Park. The farm is a McHenry County Historic Preservation Commission (MCHPC) Landmark and was purchased by the Park District with the aid of an Illinois Department of Natural Resources grant. The farm is a collection of seven buildings that includes the old farmhouse and a barn that dates back to the 1840s or 50s. The farmhouse was renovated at various times over the years and now has little resemblance to the original homestead. Vinyl siding and a sun porch added in the 1970s hide much of the farmhouse character. Inside there is a combination of historic wallpapers and timber trusses along with drop-ceilings and wood paneling. The barn and outbuildings recently had new asphalt shingle roofing installed. Much of the property is currently being used for storage by the Parks Department. There are bins behind the barn that contain sand, gravel, mulch and other siterelated maintenance materials.
Sun Valley Farm is a part of the old Stowell-
Recommendations 1 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
Collaborate with the Huntley Historical Society in the preservation and renovation of the farm buildings and site Consider HHS use of the property for conducting tours/exhibits and use as Society offices Design covers for use on materials bins Remove sun porch from homestead Restore clapboard siding and cedar shake roof to homestead Preserve/restore original interior finishes, including floors, wallpapers, ceilings, timber trusses, etc. Demolish garage building Preserve/restore outbuildings, and research uses Acquire furnishings and farm equipment to replicate mid-late 1800s period Rebuild smokehouse foundation
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CHAPTER
10
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Recreation Programs
160
RECREATION PROGRAMS
The Huntley Park District offers a significant variety of quality recreation, education, cultural, health, fitness, and athletic programs to the residents of the District. Three times each year a program brochure that describes the program offerings is published and delivered to households within the District. Programs are presented in a variety of categories with a variety of offerings in each category. Program categories can be very general with offerings that appeal to a wide range of participants or can be specific to an age group or a venue within the District.
The preschool and early childhood programs offered through the Huntley Park District are quite diverse in scope and age. The Seedlings Preschool provides an active learning environment with both individual and group activities. There is also a Night Owl Preschool offered in the evening. Camp Seedlings provides themed camps that run for one week each during the summer. Other programs are offered in dance, music, art, crafts, tumbling and a variety of other categories. Family activities are offered for parents and children with some including grandparents as well.
Preschool/Early Childhood Programs
Youth Programs
Youth programs are offered in dance, music, art, crafts, tumbling, and a variety of other categories at the next level after early childhood. Many of these programs focus on more specific interests such as magic, guitar, cooking, science, or cheerleading as examples. Summer camps with weekly themes are available for two age groups, as are weekly field trips to area attractions. Programs and events for families are also offered as well as a variety of aquatics and athletic programs.
Teen Programs
The teen program offerings include a variety of events and special interest programs. Guitar, cooking, and crafts are some of the programs available with some adult programs also including teens. Middle school dances are offered monthly during the school year. Themed summer camps and regional field trips are also offered as well as a variety of aquatics and athletic programs. An American Red Cross Babysitters Training program provides a safety course for ages 11-15 interested in developing the skills needed for responsible care of children.
Extended Time Program
The Huntley Park District, in cooperation with Consolidated School District 158, provides before and after school programs for K-5 students at five elementary schools. These programs are great for households with working parents as the program begins at 6:30AM and ends at 6:00PM on either side of the school day schedule. The District also provides activities during school out days as well as certain week-long programs during winter and spring breaks.
Adult Programs
The Districts adult population is offered a variety of programs in the visual arts, cooking, dance, fitness, aquatics, and athletics.
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RECREATION PROGRAMS
The Senior Lounge at the REC Center provides a venue for a variety of passive interests and social interaction. There is also a monthly luncheon where seniors gather for presentations on a variety of topics. And there is monthly bingo as well. For those looking for more active pursuits, there are a variety of athletics programs, including volleyball, pickleball, softball, golf, swimming, and other activities. Seniors do, of course, also participate in the special interest programs and events offered by the District including dance, visual arts, and cooking classes.
Fitness & Wellness Programs
The District offers a series of individual, group and specialty fitness and wellness programs at the fitness center and dance studio. Fitness activities include group fitness classes, yoga, pilates, zumba and belly dancing are offered, as well as nutrition and weight loss classes.
Dance Programs
Dance programs are offered through the Center Stage Dance Academy with classes held at their facility, at the REC Center Dance Studio, and in schools. Programs are available in a variety of dance styles including ballet, tap, jazz, and specialty programs for children. Certain styles are offered for children while others for adults and seniors. A wide variety of athletics programs are available through the Huntley Park District. The District offers childrens programs that provide the basics in a variety of sports as well as teen programs to help develop those skills. Youth and teen programs are available in baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, basketball, volleyball, tennis, wrestling, and other sports. Local, independent, volunteer-run sports organizations team with HPD to provide organized sports programs that have regularly scheduled practices and games during their normal sport season. Adult sports programs and leagues include soccer, softball, basketball, and pickleball.
Athletics Programs
Swim Programs
Six swim lesson levels from introductory through stroke endurance are offered at the Stingray Bay Family Aquatic Center. Two additional levels are offered for tots and for parent/tot tandems. Typical classes at each level range from 30-40 minutes in duration with eight classes per session, with an opportunity to advance to the next level of instruction. The District also offers the Stingrays Swim Team of the North Central Illinois Swim Conference. An American Red Cross Guardstart program for ages 11 and up provides basic understanding and skills for future lifeguards. The follow-up Red Cross Lifeguarding Certification class is also available. This class is open to individuals 16 and older. Pinecrest Golf Club offers private and group lessons, clinics, and leagues for various age groups. Illinois Shotokan Karate programs are offered for children and adults and cover safety and karate instruction from beginner through all belt levels. These programs help the student develop greater self-discipline, concentration, coordination, and endurance. Ten-week programs are available throughout the year
Golf Programs
Martial Arts Programs
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RECREATION PROGRAMS
The District provides inclusive recreational opportunities for all interested individuals with special needs. HPD is a member of the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA) that provides programs and services for individuals of all ages. Program offerings include a variety of sports, social clubs, special events, trips, performing arts, summer camps, and art programs. NISRA also provides Special Olympic sports training in ten different categories.
Events
The Huntley Park District offers a variety of seasonal events that appeal to a variety of interests and tastes. Summer Concerts in the Park, Fall Fest, the Fishing Derby, Community Garage Sale, Halloween Family Fun Day and Dog-tober Fest are some of the events that bring residents and visitors to the HPD parks and facilities.
PROGRAM COMPETITION
One of the challenges facing the Huntley Park District is that it overlaps the Villages of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin, each of which have a municipal recreation department that offers programs that compete directly with HPD programs. Other area park districts, including those in Elgin and Crystal Lake, also compete with HPD, though on a more indirect level. Private fitness clubs do, of course, present HPD residents with alternatives that include things like indoor pools, more diverse equipment, racquet courts or more fitness/wellness programs. And regional golf courses offer a change of scenery and a variety of difficulty levels that appeal to local golf patrons. Another major competitor is the Del Webb Sun City community, which makes up a large percentage of the population of the District, yet offers its own recreation facilities, amenities and programs to its residents. Del Webb boasts its own 18-hole golf course, swimming pool, parks, numerous recreation programs, trips, and athletic leagues. While many Sun City residents golf at Pinecrest, swim at Stingray Bay, and participate in pickleball and other HPD programs, the offerings available at Sun City rival many park and recreation agencies. These factors all play into the need for the Huntley Park District to look for ways to gain a competitive advantage and to find ways to set themselves apart from these other agencies and venues. But it also presents an opportunity for collaboration. While the Huntley Park District does have some collaborative initiatives in place with Lake in the Hills, Algonquin, and Del Webb for use of fields and some joint programs, additional opportunities do exist. 163
RECREATION PROGRAMS
The cancellation rates for recreation programs offered by other area parks and recreation agencies presents opportunities for collaboration to avoid redundancies and fill program spaces. HPD programs could be offered to those residents living outside the boundaries of the District at a resident rate especially for programs that are not always at capacity or are often cancelled. With both Algonquin and LITH offering programs not available in the Huntley Park District, a reciprocal arrangement could offer those additional programs to HPD residents while helping them achieve the capacity needed to avoid cancellation. The chart below identifies, in general terms, where the Huntley Park District, Lake in the Hills and Algonquin offer programs in similar areas, and where each agency does not offer programs. For collaboration to be initiated, a more detailed assessment of the program offerings of the three agencies should be completed.
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RECREATION PROGRAMS
Developing fair and appropriate fees for HPD programs requires an understanding of the costs, both direct and indirect, that are attributable to any given program. Direct program costs may include instructor salary, classroom supplies and equipment, possibly including a percentage of the value of major equipment (e.g. a kiln for ceramics) based on typical replacement lifecycle. Indirect costs include most overhead costs such as program registration staff, custodial services, utilities and building insurance. HPD should be able to determine an approximate value for these overhead costs that can be applied to any given program in any given venue. All programs should be tracked to determine if the fees are within reasonable range of the costs. Costs should be evaluated prior to initiation of new programs to help determine the appropriate fee. Another factor that should be considered in developing a fee structure is the level of difficulty of a program as it affects use of space and number of participants. An example of this cost/recovery consideration is a general swim program that has 25 participants versus a diving program that only has 3 due to the specialized nature of the program. If each program runs for the same amount of time, and utilizes the same part of the aquatics facility, it is easy to understand that the individual fee associated with the specialized program needs to be significantly higher than individual fee for the more general program. In other words, the cost/recovery ratio is nearly the same. This type of evaluation helps determine when programs are cancelled due to lack of registered participants and should also be considered when determining program fees.
Program Fees & Costs
Program Needs
The Huntley Park District has done a good job of understanding the interests of its residents, and adapting programs and facilities to meet that understanding. The 2010 Community Survey provides the District with current needs and interests that play well into thinking about program development. When asked what will be of interest to members of your household over the next five years, there were many responses that are program related, with 33% identifying Adult Programs for the 21-55+ age range as a top need. This is particularly important as programs for adults are a need for which HPD, like many park and recreation agencies, is not a current focus. The other responses that topped 20% of the responses include walking/running, fitness, swimming/diving, bicycling, baseball/softball, family activities, and golf. While some of these may lead to new trail development and expansion of existing facilities, the Huntley Park District is well positioned to meet these primary needs. 165
RECREATION PROGRAMS
Program Recommendations
While many program offerings by park and recreation agencies maintain user interest over time, other interests change with shifts in demographics, age, and fads that permeate society. Maintaining the base of long-term programs is essential. But it is equally important to look for ways to provide programs that appeal to an even greater cross-section of the public, and to recognize trends that affect participation and interest. Based on survey results, demographics, area competition, and current program offerings, below are a series of recommendations that can guide the enhancement of recreation programs offered by the Huntley Park District:
Program Evaluation
Develop post-program mini-surveys for use after all HPD programs to evaluate the value, instruction and content of programs, as well as interest in advanced levels of similar programs. Conduct periodic user preference surveys to evaluate existing programs, identify recreation trends, monitor the viability of existing programs, and promote interest in new programs. Work with Lake in the Hills and Algonquin to review program offerings, including age categories, proficiency levels and venues, to determine where program collaboration is viable and to the benefit of all communities. Work with Huntley athletic organizations to promote collaboration with Lake in the Hills and Algonquin athletic organizations in developing leagues and sharing facilities.
Program Collaboration
Establish relationships with Lake in the Hills, Algonquin, Centegra, and Sun City to continually review common issues, develop solutions beneficial to residents, and promote HPD interests. Work with the Huntley Library District and local citizens to form a Huntley Garden Club that can promote gardening activities and programs in the community. Work with Greenroom Productions to create performing arts programs for all age categories and ability levels. Create flexible program scheduling that will meet the lifestyle needs of more District residents including later evening and weekend programming that will attract working adults. Evaluate HPD programs to determine which programs are most popular over long time frames and provide additional sessions of popular programs to meet community demand. Continue to expand the variety of programs including educational, recreational and fitness, which allow participation by family groups. Create programs that focus on health and wellness topics for children and adults including programs that can be taken into schools.
Program Access
Family Programs

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RECREATION PROGRAMS
Create additional senior programs that provide greater opportunities to exercise motor skills through repetitive motion and engage the mind with significant detail to help keep individuals active and interested in recreation. Computer games and trivia are two introductions to be considered. Expand senior activities and programs in computers, music, exercise activities, reading, and games to promote expanded interest and use of facilities and amenities. Work with Sun City to develop collaborative programs that utilize both Sun City and HPD parks and facilities. Develop cycling, walking, and running programs, and events that are marketed regionally. Develop a series of cooking classes focusing on regional and ethnic cuisines, quick family meals, and healthy eating. Add advanced/master levels in appropriate programs to develop life-long users of HPD programs and facilities. Experiment with visual arts programs, computer classes, language classes, writing, public speaking classes, music appreciation, and other programs for adults. Explore the development of more teen programs that while pre-programmed by HPD are presented via social media as spontaneous offerings. These programs would not be published in the regular program brochure but advertised using social medium. Develop additional teen nights at the REC Center that focus on music, adventure activities, and other events that will appeal to the teen population. Expand teen activities and programs in basketball, music center, computers, and performing arts. Add natural resource programs in collaboration with the McHenry County Conservation District that utilize presentations at Cosman or on-site field studies at the Exner Marsh Conservation area. Develop landscape design and horticulture programs to assist homeowners with the basics of lawn and garden design and maintenance. Provide environmental educational programs that enhance District residents relationship with the natural world and promote environmentally sensitive lifestyles. Continue to work with Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA) in developing and increasing the quality of programs for individuals with special needs.
Adult Programs

Teen Programs
Environmental Programs
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RECREATION PROGRAMS
Special Events
Consider hosting athletic tournament events bringing in teams from the entire region. Consider developing a Tour-de-Huntley cycling event for local/regional participants.
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CHAPTER
11
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Marketing & Communications
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As in most park and recreation agencies, Huntley Park District residents typically have a somewhat limited knowledge of the District that focuses on specific parks, programs or events that are of interest. Some residents have a general belief, as evidenced by responses to the Community Survey, that HPD programs and parks are mostly, if not entirely, for children. Survey respondents, as well as stakeholders and park/program users that participated in the visioning process, expressed significant interest in HPD, but also identified misperceptions about the District. Presenting the District to the public in as broad a manner as possible can generate more interest in the variety of facilities and programs available, create a good understanding of parks and recreation, and make the District a more integral part of the lives of HPD residents.
The best marketing tool available to a parks & recreation agency is effective communications that utilizes a variety of ways to reach out to both HPD users and non-users alike. Developing quality publications that reflect the character of the District help brand HPD and further develop its image. Like the parks and facilities, branding the style and quality of the Districts communications is an excellent way to create greater recognition of HPD while providing information about programs and events to the community. Seasonal Program Brochure & Flyers The seasonal program brochure is published three times a year by HPD. It is very well done and includes detailed information on programs and events, plus information on parks, facilities, volunteer needs, and some advertising. There is a good mix of photographs and highlighted programs, with instructor bios where appropriate. Registration instructions are clear, with options available for online, walk-in, mail, and fax program registration. HPD Commissioners and staff are identified as well as information on partnering organizations. Over 80% of the Community Survey respondents identified the seasonal program brochure as the most effective resource for communication. Yet as good as the program brochure is at providing great information about the District, over 30% of the respondents identified dont know what is offered as a reason for nonparticipation. And some respondents living in those areas of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin that are within the boundaries of HPD do not have a clear understanding of the availability of HPD services where their own municipalities also provide parks and recreation, even though they receive the seasonal program brochure every few months. Flyers and facility brochures published by the District are an important marketing tool with approximately 44% of the survey respondents identifying them as an effective resource. On any given day, numerous flyers are available at HPD facilities that market a variety of events, programs, and facilities. These focused publications are great marketing tools for the District. Developing these in a manner that is consistent in quality and style will help brand HPD in the community. The seasonal program brochure will continue to be an important tool in providing both general communications about the District as well as marketing programs.
Communications Media
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HPD Website www.huntleyparks.org The Huntley Park District website is a very important communications tool for residents of the District and for others who may be interested in participating in HPD programs/events or visiting certain parks and facilities. Nearly 45% of the survey respondents identify the website as an effective resource for communications. The existing website home page provides news and upcoming events as the focus of the page, with links to current seasonal program brochures and several drop-down menus that provide links to general HPD background information as well as to programs, facilities, athletics, Stingray Bay Family Aquatic Center and Pinecrest Golf Club, which has its own unique website. Many of the links open specific pages from the seasonal program brochure, including the link to Stingray Bay and to other community organizations, where actual links to those agencies or groups may be more helpful. There is limited information on the parks, and some menus provide links without an explanation of the purpose of the link. For the resident, a website can provide significant detailed information about the District. For a visitor, it can act as a travel brochure. It is important that HPD provide a website that is easy to use, descriptive, and fun while offering quality branding of the District. Electronic Media There are a variety of online electronic media venues being utilized directly and indirectly by the Huntley Park District. HPD has two active Facebook pages where programs, news, and events are updated on a daily basis on one, and sports information is provided on the other. The District utilizes email blasts to inform program users of cancellations or conditions. Online program registration is available through the HPD website. Outside electronic media has grown in just the past year with two local organizations offering local news only through their online websites. The First Electric Newspaper provides daily news updates for Algonquin, Huntley, and Lake in the Hills and covered a public meeting during the visioning process for developing this Comprehensive Master Plan. Patch, described as your source for local knowledge you cant live without, recently expanded into the Huntley market and has presented a wide variety of articles about events and initiatives regarding the Huntley Park District, including an article about the comprehensive planning process. Almost 22% of the survey respondents identified email blasts as an effective resource, while less than 5% identified any other electronic media. Though these communications methods were not highly rated, electronic media will continue to grow in popularity as a means of communications for park and recreation agencies. HPDs daily updates on Facebook show a dedication to utilizing this media as a practical tool for keeping the community informed. The significant variety of articles on Patch show that HPD is looked upon as an important news source for the community. 172

Print Media The Northwest Herald and The Daily Herald are the two regional newspapers that, in addition to The Chicago Tribune and Sun Times, provide area residents with the best print news sources. The Huntley Journal is a free publication that is distributed to residents of Huntley but not to those areas within HPD boundaries that are outside of Huntley. Unfortunately, because distribution areas are either too limited or too regional in nature, it is difficult to utilize these publications for advertising purposes on a regular basis except for events that may be of regional interest or programs that are not offered in other communities. These newspapers are good venues for press releases relative to the District, and the Northwest Herald has blogs for each community. Both the Northwest Herald and Daily Herald are also available online.
MARKETING RECOMMENDATIONS
Effective communications leads to effective marketing that works toward informing people about HPD opportunities and, more importantly, influences people to join in. There are a variety of ways in which the Huntley Park District can inform and influence people; some of which are simply sales techniques, while others offer a sustained marketing approach through education and public relations. The following recommendations provide many of the various ways that HPD can expand on its marketing and communications program: Public Relations As defined by the Public Relations Society of America, Public relations helps an organization and its publics adapt mutually to each other. As such, public relations can take on a variety of forms that deal with policy direction, community involvement, public perception and awareness, social welfare, recognition, and public opinion. The 2010 Community Survey was a public relations tool that both garnered feedback from the public that is useful to HPD and showed the public that their attitudes and interests are important to HPD. Public relations recommendations include: Conduct community attitudes and interests surveys on a regular basis (every 5+/years) to keep abreast of changes in interests, satisfaction levels, and support for the District Conduct program evaluations at the end of all programs to determine satisfaction and interest in other similar/advanced programs Conduct monthly meetings that bring together representatives of all athletic organizations for the purposes of discussing common goals, opportunities, and concerns Conduct annual meetings with user groups from Stingray Bay, Pinecrest Golf Club, the fitness center, after-school programs, dance programs, Seedlings Preschool, and any other critical program focus areas Provide ongoing membership and active representation by Board and staff to a variety of local civic organizations, including the Lions Club, Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, Jaycees, Kiwanis, PTO/PTA, Historical Society, Senior Citizens Club, and other organizations where promotion of the mission and goals of the Huntley Park District can help build relationships Promote greater volunteerism within HPD and the community
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Present awards of recognitions annually to staff, volunteers, Huntley Parks Foundation members, coaches, and other individuals who make a difference in the community Board/staff develop, participate in and lead area bicycle rides, coffee get-togethers, park tours and other events that can promote the mission and goals of the District Develop staff and park/program user suggestion boxes online to promote thinking outside the box Provide on-going customer service training to all staff on the front line who have direct public contact, whether as a part of their job or through proximity in the parks and facilities Explore opportunities for staff to do presentations on parks and recreation topics for schools, civic organizations, clubs, etc. Work closely with community organizations to educate their members about the role of HPD, its accomplishments, and its future goals
Advertising Advertising can take on many forms and can, in some cases, be a revenue generator. Consider how a soft drink manufacturer pays for advertising on television or in print media, yet makes a profit selling licensed apparel with their logo amply displayed. For the Huntley Park District, external advertising tools may be somewhat limited due to a limited user base and, as described before, the regional nature of many traditional advertising mediums. But some external advertising, along with internal publications, can be used effectively by the District to promote programs and events, and to generally spread the word about HPD. Some advertising recommendations include: Utilize regional print media like the Northwest Herald and the Daily Herald to promote unique programs and events that may have a more regional appeal. Create banners for use on ball field outfield fences to promote new programs or programs of special interest without additional promotion Utilize advertising to promote programs that are in need of greater participation rather than those that are typically full Create small posters that can be placed in schools, municipal buildings, restaurants or other locations, including businesses in Lake in the Hills and Algonquin where additional interest in HPD programs is very viable Advertise in Lake in the Hills and Algonquin program guides and newsletters Advertise in District 158 Newsletter Distribute program/event flyers through the schools Develop all brochures, flyers, posters, and other print materials with a similar style and quality to promote branding on HPD that will be recognizable over time Consider providing HPD logo baseball caps, t-shirts, polo shirts, water bottles, etc. for public sale and for recognition awards as described under Public Relations Develop HPD promotional items, such as t-shirts, baseball caps and water bottles, for specific events such as Fallfest, Halloween Family Fun Day, etc. Replace marquee sign along Rt. 47 in Deicke Park Explore opportunities for advertising programs and services in Sun City publications
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Publicity Keeping news about the Huntley Park District visible in a positive manner is an important part of a successful marketing strategy. News releases, public service announcements, photographs, newsletters, and blogs are some of the ways that HPD can generate publicity for the District. Because HPD is within the Chicago media market area, finding and utilizing more localized media outlets is a critical need in developing a publicity campaign. Some possible ways to expand media relations include: Develop a listing of local print, broadcast, web and social media outlets for regular distribution of press releases, photographs and other announcements. Outlets may include, but not be limited to: o The Northwest Herald o The Daily Herald o Huntley Journal o Patch o First Electronic Newspaper o McHenry County Living o WZSR Star 105.5 FM o Huntleys Village Journal o LITH The Messenger o The Algonquin Citizen o District 158 Newsletter o Facebook o Twitter o Nixle Prepare and distribute press releases regularly to announce staff or Board news, new programs or services, plans for special events, etc. Work with the press to develop interesting articles that present other aspects of the Huntley Park District, or parks and recreation in general, that will educate the public about the agency behind the parks. Distribute captioned photographs of interest to print, web, and social media outlets Develop a biweekly/monthly blog about parks and recreation on The Northwest Herald website, with links through Facebook/Twitter and the HPD website Consider combining the two Facebook pages to provide a stronger single resource and the ability to cross-promote programs, events and other activities Utilize internal knowledge and interests to develop community service postings Develop public service announcements for radio broadcast when community issues that also affect parks and recreation are encountered Invite radio personalities to do on-air broadcasts at HPD facilities/events Develop student scholarship sponsorship programs for athletics, parks and recreation majors, etc.
Promotion Successful promotion of Huntley Park District events and recreation programs is a simple way to generate new users, maintain existing users, and develop collaborative initiatives that will benefit the community. The District has been successful with past promotions, and should take advantage of other opportunities that will get people involved. A few promotional ideas that can be considered include: 175

Attend and exhibit at the Annual Parenting Expo and Fun Fair in Crystal Lake to promote the Seedlings Preschool program as well as other HPD programs and services Use calendar opportunities to promote Fitness Center membership campaigns, including a New Years resolution campaign, a get-ready-for-summer campaign and a fall-into-fitness campaign. These opportunities could include free fitness assessments, membership discounts, or free months for new users. Encourage renewed annual membership in the Fitness Center by offering a discount for renewing prior to expiration Consider program discounts for multiple family members signing up for the same program, individuals signing up for a series of programs, or family members taking different programs during the exact same time period. Consider developing an internal scholarship program that offers HPD programs to underprivileged children at no cost Promote Pinecrest Golf Club on days/time periods that are typically light in round counts by developing incentives often used at group events. As an example, if Sunday afternoons are a typical slow period, have a closest-to-the-pin competition every Sunday afternoon for promotional prizes from the pro shop or restaurant Develop a birthday card incentive gift/coupon that is sent via email to program and facility users annually Focus additional promotional efforts on programs and park amenities/features that are often underutilized such as promoting the rental of the picnic shelters and the log cabin on non-holiday weekdays to businesses and organizations in the community
COMMUNICATIONS RECOMMENDATIONS
Huntley Park District Publications The Seasonal Program Brochure, flyers and newsletters produced by the District are very successful in informing the community about the activities, programs, events, and services provided by HPD. Some items to consider in the development of HPD publications include: Create a package of HPD publications that are consistent in quality and materials and offer a unique branding that becomes instantly identifiable as belonging to HPD Utilize quality paper stock that contrasts with ink color to provide highly readable and legible publications Provide more focus in the Seasonal Program Brochure on adult and senior programming to expand the understanding that the Huntley Park District is for all ages Utilize self-advertising in the Seasonal Program Brochure to encourage the use of park amenities such as picnic shelters, the log cabin, HHS tennis courts, etc.
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Huntley Park District Website While the HPD website is an important communications tool for the District, an enhanced website that offers more information, greater interaction, and quality graphics will be invaluable to the community. Enhancements to the website for consideration include: Redesign the website into an exciting and informative resource that provides features, articles and much greater information about HPD, including more detailed information on important events, profiles and other elements that will help market the Huntley Park District Design the home page to include breaking news items, but add other features that are more marketing focused Develop an interactive map of the District that allows users to click on a park or facility and be redirected to pages devoted to each o Develop descriptions of each park site and facility that describe the park, list amenities, and include links to other web pages for related program or rental information o Prepare high quality plan graphics for each facility and park property that illustrate the locations of all park facilities and amenities o Continually revise the parks and facilities descriptions to accurately reflect the amenities offered at each property as changes occur Develop a website specifically for Stingray Bay similar to Pinecrest website Utilize the website to present the District to the public by including articles on a variety of topics that can promote cross-interests Feature a park or facility each month that includes history, amenities, events, photos, recent improvements, planned improvements, and other anecdotal information Feature a recreation program each month that includes descriptions, ability levels, instructors, photos, and other information that may be of interest Feature a staff member, volunteer or Commissioner each month with profiles that include roles, interests and other information that puts a fun and positive face on the District Utilize the home page to advertise volunteer opportunities with the District Utilize the website home page to proactively market new programs and new schedules/added classes to encourage registration for those programs and schedules Include links to other agencys websites relative to the District, including Villages within the District, McHenry & Kane Counties, State agencies, schools, IPRA, NRPA, etc. Include links to the websites of organizations that partner with HPD Include links to Facebook, Twitter, Nixle, and other social networking programs used to inform residents of community news and events Develop a calendar of events that includes HPD events, Board meetings, facility opening/closing dates, specialty programs and other items of general community interest
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12
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Land Acquisition
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LAND ACQUISITION
As described in Chapter 2Community Profile, the area encompassed by the Huntley Park District is expected to continue significant growth over the next thirty years. This will likely bring residential, commercial and industrial development projects with their locations following the municipal comprehensive land use plans of the communities served by HPD. The location of future residential development is a key factor in determining where the District should focus its acquisition strategy. As residential development continues and the population grows, additional parks and open space lands will be required to meet the recreation needs of the public. While the residential developments, as they occur, can provide smaller neighborhood parks as a part of local development agreements, it is important to also consider the need for larger-scale community or regional parks that provide significant opportunities for active and passive recreation, park programming venues and scenic natural resource protection areas. As such, the neighborhood parks related to future residential development will be proposed and negotiated with developers as those projects are presented and are not an active component of the acquisition strategy that the Huntley Park District should initiate. Land that can protect natural resources, provide important linear linkages for bicycle and pedestrian trails, and large parcels suitable for development of major recreation facilities are important to the vitality of the community served by the Huntley Park District.
Existing & Future Land Use
In looking at the current development within the Huntley Park District boundary, development patterns over the last ten years and the location of land not yet developed, it is clear that future large-scale development will likely be completed based on market factors that preclude specific timing or location. Many large parcels may be planned as future residential developments as families decide to sell their land holdings or when estates are dissolved. The availability of these parcels provides developers with land to meet their market areas on a random schedule and in random areas rather than as a planned region. The central area of the Village of Huntley includes the oldest residential neighborhood in the community along with commercial properties and industrial lands. Here in the hub of the District, the road network and rail line are barriers that separate the District into fairly distinctive areas or quadrants.
SOUTHWEST QUADRANT
High While most of the residential development School during the 1990s and 2000s took place in the northeast, southeast and southwest quadrants of the District, only The Del Webb Sun City development, which takes up much of the southwest quadrant, can Sun City be considered built out. With no known plans for expansion and having an internal private recreation network, HPD involvement in developing park lands will be limited to areas west of Sun City along the Briar Hill Road corridor that runs from the Interstate 90 corridor north to Harmony Road, where it intersects just one mile west of the high school. Briar Hill Road Route 47 181
Harmony Road
LAND ACQUISITION
NORTHEAST QUADRANT
The northeast quadrant still has significant areas of infill development land available that, while adding to the general population of the District, will not significantly affect District land acquisition needs. Because the District has developed many of its neighborhood parks in this area, and the Village of Lake in the Hills has also developed parks here, there are few areas not already served by a park, even though undeveloped. Only the areas north of Ackman Road up to Foster Road have no development and will be in need of new parks as development occurs. One other area not served by an existing park is located in the Boulder Ridge Country Club development in Lake in the Hills. Should additional development within Lake in the Hills occur, it will be up to LITH whether neighborhood park lands will be developed by their own municipal recreation departments or given to HPD. LITHs Sunset Park provides a significant number of athletic venues for this part of the community.
Foster Road
Route 47
Ackman Road
Ackman Road
Sunset Park
SOUTHEAST QUADRANT
The southeast quadrant of the District includes a mix of commercial and industrial land near Huntleys village center, some older residential, newer residential development from the 1990s and 2000s, and somewhat significant blocks of open space/agricultural land. The Cider Grove development, located off the north side of Dundee Road near Kreutzer Road, is not completely developed and is slated to include a second neighborhood park if the planned subdivision is completed. Like the northeast quadrant, HPD has developed many of its neighborhood parks in this area, and the Village of Algonquin has also developed two parks here. One developed area not served by an existing neighborhood park is the area around the Terrace Hill Golf Course. Should additional development within Algonquin occur, it will be up the Village of Algonquin whether neighborhood park lands will be developed by their own municipal recreation departments or given to HPD. While there is some infill development land available, there are more significant tracts of land south of Kreutzer Road from behind the Route 47 Algonquin Road commercial areas east toward Boyer Road. While Terrace much of this agricultural Hill area may be considered wetland, there are enough Cider tracts of developable land Grove to accommodate new growth and the need for new parks. One element Kreutzer Road that is lacking in this area is an additional community park that provides greater recreation offerings and meets needs for athletic programming. 182 Route 47
LAND ACQUISITION
NORTHWEST QUADRANT
The northwest quadrant of the District is the area that is likely to incur the greatest future growth. Most of this area is open space and agricultural land, with the Talamore development, west of Route 47 and south of Ackman Road, the only real exception. There is additional residential development already planned for the area, however, along much of the east side of Coyne Station Road (ext.), from Hemmingsen to south of Ernest Road.
Hemmingsen Road Route 47 Coyne Station Road Ernesti Road AckmanRoad
Conservation Lands
While the Huntley Park District provides a Talamore significant amount of park land offering active and passive recreation opportunities, the McHenry County Conservation District and the Kane County Forest Preserve District may be better able to acquire and maintain large tracts of natural lands that should be protected from surrounding development. The Freeman Kame-Meagher Forest Preserve is just south of the District, but with adjacent open lands available for expansion north into the District. The Exner Marsh Conservation Area is within the HPD boundary and is virtually surrounded by development, most of which is residential. An additional area of conservation land is located just west of Coyne Station Road and provides an opportunity for HPD to acquire lands adjacent that could be used for a future nature center.
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LAND ACQUISITION
Strategy Development
This acquisition strategy focuses on six basic premises: 1. The competition for land will become more intense as the area continues to develop meaning that land appropriate for parks and open space will become less available and more costly. 2. CMAP population projections for the area indicate that the Huntley Park District population may increase by 75-85% over the next 30 years indicating a need to be proactive in anticipating future needs and acting prior to the realization of the need. 3. Existing privately owned lands that are used for recreation purposes should be considered for acquisition to the public domain as they become available, by either the McHenry County Conservation District, Kane County Forest Preserve District or by the Huntley Park District. 4. Natural areas should be added to the public domain to encourage environmental education and public access to open space. 5. While the Del Webb Sun City development provides its own recreation amenities and is nearing its capacity, residents of Sun City still utilize HPD parks and facilities and participate in programs and events offered by the District. Accessibility from Sun City to HPD parks, as well as greater accessibility in other areas of the community, is an important need that requires significant collaboration between a variety of agencies that serve the residents of the District. 6. The District should work closely with the Villages of Lake in the Hills and Algonquin to ensure that as new subdivisions are developed, adequate park land is set aside to serve residents, preserve natural areas, provide linkages to schools, and other parks and open space acreage.
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LAND ACQUISITION
It will be important for the District to take a pro-active approach to land acquisition that focuses on forming land acquisition agreements with property owners before they put the property on the market. This proactive approach will allow the District to potentially remove the competitive factors involved if the District were required to bid against developers, a scenario that will likely result in higher land prices. Identifying land acquisition areas for the Huntley Park District is based on a number of factors, including: Providing geographic coverage of the District with appropriately scaled parks and open space to meet the current and projected population areas within the District Expanding existing facilities to provide additional recreation amenities in existing parks or to develop access to natural areas Expanding the network of trails through the District Protecting natural resources, including forested areas, natural open space, and other key resources.
Huntley Park District Land Acquisition
While the neighborhood parks are mostly surrounded by residential properties or stormwater management areas, HPDs community parks Deicke, Warrington and Tomaso currently have open space lands adjacent that could be considered for expansion of those parks. Expansion of these parks can provide expanded athletics program areas and can provide viable alternatives for new major facilities in more centralized locations within the District.
PARK EXPANSION
EXISTING RECREATION LANDS
Properties that have historically been utilized for recreation purposes, whether public or private, may offer existing infrastructure or amenities that can be redeveloped at less cost than construction of new facilities and amenities. As lands used for recreation become available, HPD should consider redevelopment or turnkey opportunities. Community connectivity is an important feature in developing sustainable community parks and facilities. While HPD can develop trails within parks, partnership with the municipalities, schools, and developers is needed to truly plan for a trail network that links parks, schools, and other important venues. HPD should work with the Village of Huntley and other municipalities to include trail planning as a key part of all new projects developed in the District.
TRAIL DEVELOPMENT
FUTURE COMMUNITY PARK LANDS
The map on the following page identifies four target areas where the Huntley Park District should consider acquisition of open space as land becomes available. Specific properties are not identified, but rather general areas within which property will meet one or more of the factors described above. Within these areas are numerous land parcels that, separately or in tandem with other properties, can be considered key to providing appropriate geographic coverage of the Districts population now and in the future. These target areas are focused on land acquisition to meet needs for future community parks, as neighborhood parks will be provided through developer agreements. The community parks will serve as venues for athletics and major recreational facilities that may be needed in the future. 185
LAND ACQUISITION
4 2 3
Community Parks Service Areas

Huntley Park District Community Parks Lake in the Hills Community Parks Sun City Community Park Acquisition Target Areas
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LAND ACQUISITION
The biggest need in the southeast quad is a park that provides an additional venue for athletics. With Tomaso Sports Park and Warrington Park in Huntley and Sunset Park in Lake in the Hills providing the three major sports venues in the District, current residents in the southeast are served only by the neighborhood parks provided by HPD and the Village of Algonquin. Centered around CSD 158s Square Barn Campus, acquisition of a land in this area will meet both current and future needs as the area continues to develop through infill and new development in Kane County. Because of the overlap with Lake in the Hills and Algonquin in providing recreation on the east side, a community park venue provided by HPD will generate greater support by residents in those areas as well as good public relations for the District. With an existing population base already in place, future residential development likely and a lack of public recreation facilities in this area, consideration may also be given to locating future facilities, such as another recreation center or an aquatic facility, in this area as well.
TARGET AREA 1
TARGET AREA 2
This area represents the most likely growth area within the Huntley Park District. With Talamore being the first major development to locate on the northwest side of the District, and additional development already in planning stages just west of Talamore, the area will need athletics venues and other facilities to meet the needs of the growing population. Centered in the Coyne Station Road/Adamson Road area, there are many opportunities in this area for recreation development and for creating a network of trails that link parks, schools, and other important area venues. This area can also be considered for development of other operational and recreation facilities including a maintenance facility, field house, aquatics facility or other venues that will serve the growing population.
TARGET AREA 3
The presence of a large conservation area here provides a great opportunity for the District to collaborate in developing a nature center or consider lands adjacent to the conservation area for development. Acquisition of adjacent property will allow HPD to have greater control over site activities and still tie in to any trail development to utilize the conservation area for environmental education, interpretation, and habitat study. Over time, as residential development occurs in the area, additional active and passive recreation facilities and amenities will also be needed. This area along Route 47 north of Huntley village is a rolling area of farmlands with quarries located at the north end. The terrain offers a different feel from many other areas in the District and provides opportunities for active and passive recreation development. Quarry sites are often developed as recreation lands once their product it expended. While commercial development along Route 47 is likely to be a key future land use, HPD can consider this area for good access and unique development opportunities.
TARGET AREA 4
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CHAPTER
13
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Capital Improvement Prioritization
190
CAPITAL PRIORITIZATION
As described in Chapters 8 and 9, the recommendations are prioritized to provide a guide for future capital funding. The prioritization and the recommendations themselves have been developed in a manner that will allow flexibility in their interpretation and in their Implementation. First priority recommendations consist of projects that should be implemented within the next two years. The second priority recommendations should be implemented in a range of two to four years depending on conditions, trends, and funding opportunities. The third priority recommendations are those that should be completed sometime within the five-year planning period. Fourth priority items look beyond a fiveyear time frame and include some larger capital projects that should be developed when timing and funding opportunities are presented. The capital prioritization is presented in two forms that work together to provide both an overview and the specific improvements proposed. The first section lists the improvements/enhancements and associated costs by park or facility name, providing a site by site listing of proposed capital needs. The second section presents categories of proposed improvements for the parks and lists the parks where such improvements are needed by priority.
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PARKS
BORHART FAMILY PARK 1 Fill/level athletic field turf areas 1 Recut edge and grade ball field infield 1 Reestablish turfgrasses throughout park 2 Utilize specialty paving in seating area 2 Add planted islands within seating areas 2 Add landscaping at park sign 2 Redesign/reshape berms & landscape areas 2 Edge playground area and planting beds 2 Sand & repaint shelter posts 3 Redesign/build pathways 3 Add paved aprons around benches 3 Provide soccer goals 3 Sealcoat parking lot 3 Rebuild/Expand playground COTTONTAIL PARK 1 Develop a new park master plan 1 Replace, expand and diversify playground equipment 1 Edge playground area and planting beds 1 Remove sand play area and expand/redesign seating area 1 Replace shelter roof and repaint surfaces 1 Remove picnic kiosks 1 Replace picnic tables and benches 1 Repair/repaint park sign 1 Reestablish channel and rip-rap bed 2 Consolidate planting areas and add landscape 2 Add landscaping at park sign 2 Add bicycle rack 2 Add naturalizing plantings as transition to wetland area/etc. 4 Add interpretive signs at natural area 4 Consider ornamental gazebo on west end DEICKE PARK 1 Redesign and consolidate directional signage 1 Redesign landscape at park sign/gates 1 Rebuild sand volleyball courts 1 Replace marquee sign on Rt.47 1 Remove dead trees/replace ornamental tree at ball field 1 Replace all picnic tables/benches 1 Replace roof on Martines shelter near ball field 2 Stabilize bank edges on pond 2 Add ornamental landscaping to screen utility panels 2 Add plantings between parking and north playground area 2 Add bicycle racks
192 $ 2,000 15,000 5,000 7,000 4,000 2,000 6,000 2,000 1,000 12,000 3,000 4,000 3,000 110,000 8,000 90,000 3,000 12,000 4,000 2,000 20,000 3,000 3,000 7,000 2,000 4,000 2,000 3,000 30,000 7,000 3,000 4,000 20,000 3,000 120,000 3,000 12,000 3,000 2,000 12,000

3 4 4 4
Replace picnic tables in picnic kiosks Add directional and interpretive signage Replace/upgrade basketball and ball field fencing Add historic-style lighting 6,000 10,000 45,000 75,000
KILEY PARK 1 Replace and add plantings in parking berm 1 Paint/repair toilet screen fence and add shade tree 1 Replace fencing mesh at ball field 1 Recut edge and grade ball field infield 2 Replace playground and expand tot lot area 2 Add shade trees at playground, basketball court & ball field 2 Add access paths to all amenities 2 Reshape planting bed edges for easier maintenance 3 Repair gazebo base concrete 4 Add naturalizing plantings as transition to wetland area/etc. OL TIMERS PARK 1 Develop a new park master plan 1 Replace, expand and diversify playground 1 Upgrade perimeter fencing and backstop/fencing 1 Extend perimeter fencing along north property line 1 Replace park sign and enhance entry landscape 1 Replace picnic tables and benches 1 Rebuild walkways/paths throughout park 1 Rebuild/pave parking lot 1 Provide ADA accessible paths to park amenities, benches, etc. 1 Add bicycle racks 1 Add permanent soccer goal(s) 1 Consider adding tennis courts to the park 2 Screen maintenance yard from park 2 Dispose of excess materials from maintenance yard 2 Add naturalizing plantings as transition to streambed/etc. PARISEK PARK 1 Replace dead/barren plantings 1 Add planted islands within seating areas 1 Utilize specialty paving in seating areas 2 Add permanent soccer goal 3 Rebuild/pave walkways throughout park 3 Replace bicycle rack 3 Provide direct paths to playground and bike rack 4 Replace, expand, and diversify playground 4 Add splash pad
2,000 2,000 8,000 15,000 90,000 4,000 5,000 5,000 1,000 4,000
$ 15,000 130,000 30,000 35,000 15,000 20,000 20,000 60,000 5,000 8,000 4,000 85,000 3,000 3,000 4,000
7,000 4,000 7,000 4,000 15,000 4,000 2,000 90,000 300,000
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RED HAWKS REST 1 Extend planting beds 1 Plant traffic corner areas 1 Replace dead/barren plantings 1 Add shade trees 1 Plant low-grow grasses/meadow 1 Add paved apron at bench 1 Add trash can RUTH FAMILY PARK 1 Program to eradicate weeds 1 Restripe parking lot 1 Paint/stain eaves on picnic shelter 1 Recut edge and grade ball field infield 1 Add shade trees behind the ball field 2 Resurface basketball court 2 Edge playground and sand play areas 2 Reshape planting berms and combine bed edges 3 Pave accessible path and aprons to all benches 3 Add access paths to all amenities 3 Replant area on south side of toilet 3 Eliminate sand play/add tot lot apparatus 4 Consider addition of splash pad TOMASO SPORTS PARK 1 Install playground 1 Construct toilet/concession building 2 Add overhead mesh between grouped ball fields 2 Install parking lot landscape 2 Install grass pavers in overflow parking area 2 Install shade trees in lawn areas behind backstops 2 Screen maintenance building 2 Install lights on athletic fields 2 Add bike racks 3 Add Tomaso Park sign at Talamore pedestrian entry 3 Pave all paths/trails 4 Revisit grades on Ball field E 4 Construct Field Turf fields TURES PARK 1 Program to eradicate weeds 1 Repair water fountain 1 Repair/replace warped picnic table 1 Add access paths to all park amenities 1 Pruning & replacement of trees 1 New plantings at park sign and rules sign areas
$ 4,000 1,000 1,000 4,000 3,000 1,000 1,000 5,000 1,000 1,000 15,000 3,000 4,000 2,000 5,000 7,000 4,000 2,000 35,000 200,000
$ 100,000 300,000 50,000 15,000 75,000 4,000 3,000 300,000 8,000 7,000 70,000 50,000 4,000,000 $ 5,000 1,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000
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1 1 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 4
Edge playground and sand play areas Recut edge and grade ball field infield Resurface basketball court Add shade trees at playground, basketball court, and ball field Sealcoat parking lot Add permanent soccer goal(s) Reshape/combine planting bed edges Replace playground and expand tot lot area Repair shelter base concrete Consider addition of splash pad $ 3,000 15,000 4,000 4,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 85,000 2,000 200,000 2,000 3,000 8,000 18,000 160,000 100,000 4,000 85,000 40,000 20,000 12,000 200,000 10,000 5,000 3,000 1,000 15,000 3,000 12,000 2,000 90,000
WARRINGTON PARK 1 Replace plant materials in parking lot beds 1 Add accessible path to playground near Stingray Bay 2 ADA paths to ball field bleachers and soccer fields 2 Add 18-hole disc golf course 2 Add lights to ball fields at Stingray Bay 3 Add new playground at REC ball fields 3 Add shade tree grove at REC ball fields 3 Consider adding tennis courts 3 Repair/reseal parking lots and Lois Lane 3 Increase shelter area parking 3 Stabilize pond edges and create a no-mow buffer zone 4 Build concession/toilet/storage building 4 Add second park sign at Rt.47 and Mill Street WEISS PARK 1 Program to eradicate weeds 1 Edge playground and planting bed mulch areas 1 Sand/paint gazebo posts 2 Recut edge and grade ball field infield surface 2 Sealcoat parking lot 3 Rebuild/pave paths 3 Add permanent soccer goal 3 Replace playground and tot lot
FACILITIES
PINECREST GOLF CLUB 1 Hole by Hole Improvements 1 New irrigation system/deep well/pump station 1 New maintenance lift for equipment 1 Rebuild bridge on #1 2 Fairway turf conversion (annual budget) 2 Landscape improvements at hole markers, bridges, etc. 4 Cart storage area canopy & electrical upgrade
$ 30,000 1,500,000 5,000 3,000 50,000 50,000 300,000
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DEICKE RECREATION CENTER 1 Clean & paint all areas 1 Renovate/upgrade kitchen area 1 Upgrade flooring throughout 1 Upgrade window treatments in event/meeting spaces 1 Install alternative lighting in event/meeting spaces 1 Install audio/visual system in event/meeting spaces 1 Install audio system in multi-purpose space 1 Stock/provide flexible meeting/event furnishings and dcor 1 Reconfigure parking for ADA compliance DEICKE LOG CABIN 1 Replace picnic tables with all-wooden tables 1 Fill toilet pit and seal outhouse structure 1 Add portable toilets with fencing and landscape along trail 1 Provide directional signage near playground and cabin 1 Add interpretive signage and photos inside the cabin STINGRAY BAY 1 Add a new playground within the existing fence line 2 Add sound system improvements 3 Add a half-pipe water slide/active water play structure 3 Add climbing wall for teens/adults 3 Add passive thermal solar heating system, etc. REC CENTER 1 Add enclosed offices and cubicle spaces to the Locust Room 2 Redevelop courtyard 2 Redesign Mill Street recreation lobby 2 Art/photography exhibits 3 Redevelop Miss Connies Playground/Naturegrounds 4 Phase in rooftop wind/solar components SUN VALLEY FARM 1 Design covers for use on materials bins 3 Remove sun porch from homestead 3 Restore clapboard siding and cedar shake roof to homestead 3 Preserve/restore original interior finishes 3 Demolish garage building 3 Preserve/restore outbuildings 3 Acquire 1800s furnishings and farm equipment 3 Rebuild smokehouse foundation
$ 15,000 1,500 120,000 5,000 4,000 4,000 4,000 5,000 5,000 $ 15,000 3,000 3,000 2,000 3,000 $ 100,000 12,000 250,000 50,000 150,000 $ 25,000 120,000 8,000 25,000 120,000 150,000 $ 25,000 10,000 250,000 250,000 10,000 150,000 100,000 20,000
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The following list presents categories of proposed improvements for the parks, and lists the parks where such improvements are needed by priority. The #1 listings are in order by priority. Other future prioritized items are listed alphabetically. The facility needs improvements are not included in this section because of the unique nature of those improvements that are not common to many properties.
PLAYGROUND REPLACEMENT / ADDITIONS

1 1 1 1 2 Tomaso Sports Park Cottontail Park Ol Timers Park Warrington Park Kiley Park Borhart Family Park Parisek Park Ruth Family Park Tures Park Warrington Park Weiss Park Borhart Family Park Kiley Park Tures Park Tomaso Sports Park Warrington Park Weiss Park Deicke Park Tomaso Sports Park
3 3 3 3 3 3
1 1 1
BALL FIELD IMPROVEMENTS
2 2 2 4 4
TENNIS ADDITION 1 Ol Timers Park 3 Warrington Park BASKETBALL IMPROVEMENTS 2 Ruth Family Park 2 Tures Park 2 Weiss Park 4 Deicke Park SOCCER ADDITIONS/IMPROVEMENTS
1 2 2 Ol Timers Park Parisek Park Tures Park 3 Borhart Family Park 3 Weiss Park
VOLLEYBALL IMPROVEMENTS 1 Ol Timers Park 1 Deicke Park

197
DISC GOLF ADDITION 2 Warrington Park PARKING IMPROVEMENTS 1 Ol Timers Park 1 Ruth Family Park 2 Tomaso Sports Park 2 Tures Park 2 Weiss Park 3 Borhart Family Park 3 Warrington Park TRAIL/WALKWAY IMPROVEMENTS 1 Ol Timers Park 1 Tures Park 2 Kiley Park 2 Parisek Park 2 Warrington Park 3 Borhart Family Park 3 Parisek Park 3 Ruth Family Park 3 Weiss Park LANDSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS 1 Parisek Park 1 Red Hawks Rest 1 Deicke Park 1 Warrington Park 1 Kiley Park 1 Ruth Family Park 1 Tures Park 2 Borhart Family Park 2 Cottontail Park 2 Kiley Park 2 Ol Timers Park 2 Ruth Family Park 2 Tomaso Sports Park 2 Tures Park 3 Ruth Family Park 3 Warrington Park BICYCLE RACKS 1 Ol Timers Park 2 Cottontail Park 2 Deicke Park 2 Tomaso Sports Park 3 Parisek Park
198
SIGNAGE 1 Cottontail Park 1 Ol Timers Park 1 Deicke Park 3 Tomaso Sports Park 4 Deicke Park 4 Warrington Park SEATING AREA FEATURE IMPROVEMENTS 1 Parisek Park 1 Cottontail Park 2 Borhart Family Park BENCH/PICNIC TABLE REPLACEMENT 1 Deicke Park 1 Ol Timers Park 1 Tures Park 2 Oak Knoll Park 3 Highview Park PICNIC SHELTER/GAZEBO ADDITIONS/IMPROVEMENTS 1 Cottontail Park 1 Deicke Park 1 Ruth Family Park 2 Borhart Family Park 2 Deicke Park 3 Kiley Park 3 Tures Park 4 Cottontail Park INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS 1 Cottontail Park (RipRap Channel) 1 Ol Timers Park (Perimeter Fencing) 2 Deicke Park (Pond Bank Stabilization) 3 Warrinton Park (Pond Bank Stabilization) 4 Deicke Park (Park Lighting) MISCELLANEOUS IMPROVEMENTS 1 Tomaso Sports Park (Concession/Toilet Building) 4 Tomaso Sports Park (Field Turf) 4 Warrington Park (Concession/Toilet Building)
199
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A
Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Appendices
202
APPENDIX A SOURCES
Developing a Comprehensive Master Plan entails significant research of information both broad and specific. The listing below includes sources outside the Huntley Park District that provided information that was pertinent to the planning process. Thank you to each of the organizations, agencies, businesses and individuals for the use of data and background materials used in the preparation of this document. National Recreation & Park Association Illinois Park & Recreation Association Illinois Association of Park Districts Illinois Department of Natural Resources Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning U.S. Census Bureau University of Illinois, Office of Recreation & Park Resources Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association The Northwest Herald First Electric Newspaper Huntley Patch Sun City Community Association Consolidated School District 158 McHenry County Conservation District Kane County Forest Preserve District Village of Huntley Huntley Area Public Library Huntley Fire Protection District Grafton Township Village of Lake in the Hills Village of Algonquin Village of Lake Zurich City of McHenry City of Woodstock Bartlett Park District Belvedere Park District Cary Park District DeKalb Park District Dundee Township Park District Rolling Meadows Park District Roselle Park District Streamwood Park District St. Charles Park District Sycamore Park District Wauconda Park District Zillow Real Estate Loopnet Commercial Real Estate 55Places.com Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce Centegra Health Bridge Readex Research 203
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Please use the space below to provide any additional comments regarding the Huntley Park District that will assist in planning for the future. If your comments are in regard to a specific question in this survey, please make reference to the question number. I would recommend public/private partnerships for any new facilities development. No one wants tax increases for these types of programs. Also, why not work more closely with schools for programs. We live at the far end of the Huntley District borderline and it is not convenient to visit parks and rec center. Recently retired though so we might start using more facilities and programs. Please plan activities that cater to 2 working parent families & all age-ranges. Tumbling classes need to be offered to 5-7 year olds. I have not been involved but all of the Huntley Park facilities I have driven by are in good shape. Would like to be informed of volunteer opportunities. Maintain cleanliness, safety, and upgrade of your facility, and if you could add more programs and improve your facility. Thank you! Would love if there was an indoor pool. We would love an indoor swimming pool in Huntley. Right now the only way to swim is to join an expensive health club. Need more police presence at parks to handle the drug problem we have with kids that hang out during and after park hours. More sidewalks around the schools in Reed Road so kids can walk safely to school. Thank you! I appreciate that your prices for programs remain fair. You are all doing a great job. We like to watch our grandchildren sports games. Some of your parking lots are too far away from the fields. Like at Tomaso Sports Park and Warrington. Question 4--Need bike path along Rt. 47 and my major road going through Huntley, to get kids off street to make it safer for them. We have not started a family yet so it is hard to predict what our needs and usage will be. But I am excited about Huntley's interest in all these items and look forward to enjoying the amenities when the family (children) enter our lives. I am a working mom who would like to see more times available for children's programs!
209

Needs outdoor winter activities (snowshoes, snow boarding). Would like to have all playgrounds with soft rubber surfacing from recycled tires. Drinking fountains and bench pads at Tomaso. Upgrade fitness center, equipment, studios to compete with Lifetime and Healthbridge. Offer afternoon fitness classes. Parisek Park is a mess -- please upgrade and maintain! We feel the H. Park Dist. programs have been a wonderful asset to the community, we have been here for 7 years and use the programs offered on a regular basis. The older kids, preteen and up, have nowhere to go in Huntley. We have no movie theater, arcade, etc. Skateboarding is such a big sport around here we really would love a skate park in Huntley. We have enough soccer fields and playgrounds. Something for bigger kids to keep them out of trouble! Had a 2008 Pool pass for 4. Will never waste the $ again with the overcrowding at the pool. Non pass holders/non residents should not be allowed in until holders/residents have at least 2-3 hours of pool time. Land acquisition should be absolutely last thing on your list. Also, I see you did not mention traffic through Huntley. Why not? It is a major problem. Crossing Rt. 47 on bikes? Bike lanes on Rt. 47? We would like a dog park and more bike paths! Thank you. Athletic fields, schedule additional outdoor insect spraying May through September in parks. It became difficult to use the facilities (parks) this year. Thank you. Deicke Park needs restrooms by the north end playground by the cabin. Do not raise tax assessment. I'm quite satisfied with the Huntley Park District. My only real suggestion is to make the Stingray pool an indoor facility. Question #12: You need indoor facility (bigger) for basketball leagues (kids/adults). #10: New year round swimming pool would be nice (indoor). #11: Senior day care program would be nice (none in area). Senior bus trips would duplicate programs offered by Sun City. Attendance at those are way down (economy issues), non-productive on attendance/revenue. #4) We live in Del Web and are in our 50s. We would like entertainment and activities for our activities age group. #7) My daughter would prefer the park district but attends Lifetime Fitness because the exercise facilities close too early during the week and weekend.
210

An outdoor ice ring or two would be great - maybe at one or two parks throughout Huntley. I grew up in Arlington Heights & there were 3 free outdoor rinks that I can think of. It's so important to get the kids outside even in the winter. I think LITH has one too! Remember seniors 65+ programs! I would like to see the number and variety of programs offered to preschoolers (3-5 yrs) increase. I feel like it is lacking especially in the area of large motor activity. Tomaso needs more bathrooms! Clean up website -- too many old classes. Understand you need to keep a reference of them, but confusing to end user. Not all households have a stay at home parent, need to cater to families that both parents work -- more evening and weekend athletic/program opportunities. Also get some air conditioning in the gym! We have wonderful facilities, but the P.O. has raised rental rates so the average resident can't afford them. Had my daughter's baptism in 2005 at Deicke Park community room - $75 whole day. Now, it's $150 for only 4 hours. More needs to be done to insure the quality of all programs. The park district is fabulous! Add lighting to all, or most used, baseball fields, Incl. girls softball field(s). Add a free standing concession stand at both stingray & Tomaso baseball fields. May be a money maker especially during season & summer tournament play. I would love to switch from Lifetime Fitness to your facility. However, this is what holds me back: 1) Day care -- very limited hours. 2) Classes -- not difficult enough, not good times (only in mornings) and no dance (hip hop, for example). Deicke Park is a great place to go. Please keep and maintain for generations to come. Put concessions for lighting at baseball fields. I think that there should be a stoplight at Mills Street and 47. There are lots of kids who live on the other side of 47 and now they are going to have to walk across four lanes of traffic to get to the water park and use the facilities. I feel this is very dangerous for them. 90 years old -- limited in recreation activities. We would love to see racquetball courts. In re: to question 4 - like pedestrian trails. Living in Sun City is great but we are trapped here. There is no way to get to town and use the existing bike/pedestrian trails other than risk our lives on 47. Why not a path from Sun City across the creek to Sting Ray Bay & therefore access to Deicke park & downtown Huntley.
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I am sorry this survey should be mailed to someone who participates in the park program. I did join the senior club but never received any information from them regarding meetings, outing, or anything else, I do not use the park facilities. As you can see my participation in Huntley Park activities is extremely limited. I will however, support any effects to acquire new land for future use and expansion, in addition to improving or adding to existing facilities. Thank you. Due to our present economy costs need to be kept minimal, yet giving as good service and availability to all, as possible. I don't use the park very often, but I feel an excellent park district is important for the community in general. New Deicke Park Discovery area is excellent! Would love to have biking trails and walking paths! Better parking for group picnics needed. We have a wonderful park district in Huntley, IL. Keep up the great work. We have twin grandchildren that live nearby. They are only 1 1/2 years old but we have taken them to Deicke Park quite a few times this summer. We also walk all the trails at Deicke, Tomaso and Old Timers quite a bit. The new children's play area in Deicke Park is more than fantastic, just to sit and see the children enjoy this park is a delight. Thank you! #6) I didn't think Deicke Park could get any nicer than it already was, but then the new children's play area was added. It is wonderful! Thought was even given to the adults who are supervising the children. The park board even planned something for everyone at Stingray Bay. We love taking our grandkids there. The new golf club at Pinecrest is a great addition to our community too. I'm glad to find, through the survey, that the park district is looking and planning ahead. Sun City provides all of our needs at the moment so we don't use the park district facilities. Keep taxes down. Not worth anything to me without. Do not want to pay for this. Cross country ski trail in the winter. Cross country ski lessons. I only use Stingray Park with grandchildren and Del Web facilities, sorry. The parks are great. An indoor pool at Stingray Park would be great. The Sun City pool has limited facilities for kids. I would like to see more senior dances. I love to dance, but they only have clubs, we need open dancing. Thank you for the survey; however, I'm an older adult and I'm reduced to walking and 212

working out in the pool. I've read your bulletin and feel that more programs are needed for the community. Enjoy picnic area. Future planning should consider and plan a high priority on nature preserves. This town is growing so quickly and there has been a very low importance placed on this issue. It would help to beautify out town as well as many other learning experiences for children and adults. 6, 11, Preschool is very expensive compared to other neighborhood park districts. 8, No good or age appropriate music and gymnastics offerings. Only very few to select from. I'm all for completing, improving, expanding bike and pedestrian paths. Get people outdoors, make it safe and pave it. I train for triathlons and it would be great to keep it close to home. Bike path with landscape plan would be used by many people -- now currently using Crystal Lake and Schaumening paths. We are thankful for your good work to build into the community! After school programs/classes in schools immediately following the school day are great for families -- I'd love to see more of these opportunities for our children and focus on the quality of the program. There aren't many options. I'd rather sign my daughter up for an after school class than have her go to after school care. Expanding the bike/walking/running paths so that they connect through Huntley neighborhood to the REC Center would be a great improvement to the community and ultimately encourage more visits to Deicke Park. I think we need a SAFE way to cross over (or under) Route 47 especially now that it is widening. Neighborhood parks are less than average in terms of appeal, amenities, and user friendliness. Deicke Park is wonderful (A+), but the neighborhood parks need work. They need trees and more of a landscape plan as well as amenities. From question 12, our neighbors and my family really would like a park in the Cider Grove subdivision. There is no park within walking distance. 6. Parks -- the park by the library has restrooms but they are never open! Question 9: I do look at the seasonal brochure, either nothing interests me or cost is too high. I also work retail - so it's hard sometimes to sign for a program that goes for several weeks or nights a week. Also we live west of the high school - not in Del Webb & traffic is terrible. We find ways to avoid town all together. We are very happy with this park district. Very organized, great programs & dedicated volunteers! 3 Oaks Rec area by Crystal Lake is beyond anything we have. I would like to see if we could get our park district to work with Crystal Lake so we could use their facility since we are neighbors. Many parents didn't like AAA baseball organization. Specifically coaches and director of AAA. Some seemed to want to win at all costs. We live in LITH and thought you had to live in Huntley to use Huntley programs. 213

You are doing a good job just need to expand some programs and make them easier to get to from area D on your map. Question 6. Stingray Beach is nice but is a bit expensive for a family each visit. Also, the hours on the weekends. Families with young children like to do activities before nap time. We need an indoor pool, especially for use by the high school. We need to maintain open space for recreation/family time. We need more innovative programs, such as salsa/hip hop dance, instead of traditional ballroom. Increase your reputation/organization and support of baseball team and coaches. I think all of the parks in our area are nice, but during summer (also spring and fall) they could be mowed a bit more and garbage collected because teens have been knocking over cans. Bike paths that go places where residents go. A bike path from I90 North along Route 47 would be great. Connect the dots, no bike paths to nowhere! I rented the pavilion at Hilltop for the last 4 years for a family reunion and very pleased and will rent again for 2011. Our family loves Deicke Park. Classes weren't offered enough times/day for me working full time days. Would like to see different price structure for Stingray Bay (i.e., I chaperone my kids, but do not swim -- I shouldn't have to pay for a swim pass just to be the extra eyes!) Would like to see a youth boy's volleyball program and youth golf (under 17) pass for Pinecrest. Extend bike path on Algonquin Road from Huntley into Lake in the Hills going past the church & bellchase. We have been in area for 16 years. Now that kids are older, they seem to be in that inbetween age of many programs. Too many programs and LITH has the same ones, and my tax dollars are going to both. One out of every 5 people have either lost their jobs or have a significantly lower job. The unemployment numbers do not take into account those who fell off the rolls or who were self employed and cannot get out of the box with what you have and be honest. We moved here from Naperville, IL. There parks and rec programs were amazing! An indoor pool would be the one thing I would really like to see. The fitness center could replace padding on machines that have tape on them. The tape starts to peel and then sticks to you. We should have our own indoor pool. Would be great for the entire community. Am willing to support financially. Have teen (12-18 yrs) flag football or Lacrosse. 214

I hope they make a pool by Sunset Park in LITH. We have used and will continue to use programs and facilities of the Huntley Park District. We have been very happy with everything. I would love to see a year round indoor pool pass offered. I am looking for a place to swim for exercise. Stingray Bay Center is too far for our kids to ride their bikes and not safe to cross Rt. 47 and Main St. Sunset Park would be a better area for all the kids in this area. Great facilities and look forward to bringing my kids in the future. Huntley Park District is Top's. Parks are usually very well kept and clean! In the past 9 years we have lived here, it has been wonderful to see the growth and progress that Huntley is making. I love the new Discovery Playground at Deicke Park. I would like to see playground completed at Tomaso Sports Complex. The programs and services provided are very diverse and interesting. However, I feel the cost is often prohibitive to my family. We do enjoy the free offerings though. Think about partnering with local PTA's for programs! With so many families now having financial issues & 2 working parents it would be helpful to lower fees (for a period of time) & offer more evening & weekend programs. Keep up the good work! Until the economy regains stability, refrain from any increases in taxes. I had been using the fitness room on a regular basis until Rt. 47 was so torn up, I gave up my membership. It takes me 20 minutes one way so I decided to use my home treadmill and weights. It is just too inconvenient with the road construction. The fitness center is nice and almost people needed. Danny and Judy are wonderful and I will miss the interaction with them. We are seniors but our family uses your facilities. Need to have food vendor at Tomaso Park and more shaded areas!
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2011

HUNTLEY PARK DISTRICT COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN

2011 COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN

1 3 9 17 21 53 67 87 105 117 147 159 169 179 189 201

Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Introduction

CHAPTER 1 PARKS AND RECREATION

CHAPTER 2 COMMUNITY PROFILE

CHAPTER 3 COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

CHAPTER 5 CLASSIFICATION OF PARKS

CHAPTER 6 COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

CHAPTER 8 PARK ASSESSMENT

CHAPTER 9 FACILITY ASSESSMENT

CHAPTER 10 RECREATION PROGRAMS

CHAPTER 12 LAND ACQUISITION

CHAPTER 13 CAPITAL PRIORITIZATION

B 2010 COMMUNITY SURVEY

C COMMUNITY SURVEY COMMENTS

PARKS & RECREATION

PARK & RECREATION TRENDS

PARKS & RECREATION

PARKS & RECREATION

STEWARDSHIP OF THE LAND

PARKS & RECREATION

FAMILY HEALTH INTERESTS

PARKS & RECREATION

OUTDOOR FITNESS FACILITIES

Huntley Park District 2011 Comprehensive Master Plan Community Profile

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

Male Female No Answer

15-19 20-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

HOUSEHOLD AGE & GENDER PROFILE

140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

3+ Times/Week 1-2 Times/Week 2-3 Times/Month Once/Month A Few Times/Year

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

10 or more 8-9 6-7 4-5 1-3 None

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

SATISFACTION WITH FACILITIES

Excellent Good Average Fair Poor

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

Excellent Good Average Fair Poor

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

Excellent Good Average Fair Poor

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

Excellent Good Average Fair Poor

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

SATISFACTION WITH COMMUNICATIONS

Excellent Good Average Fair Poor

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

PARK & FACILITIES INTERESTS