The Parks and Recreation Element of Harlingen's Vision 2020 Comprehensive Plan provides a statement of goals and objectives, documents the existing characteristics of the City's parks and recreation system, identifies and analyzes park system needs and related issues, and recommends a framework for continued development of a comprehensive parks and recreation system through the year 2020. The primary focus is on mechanisms to enhance and expand the parks, recreation and open space opportunities for all citizens of the Harlingen area.

Parks and Recreation Planning Area

This planning area for the Parks and Recreation Element of the Harlingen Comprehensive Plan is the same geographic area as other plan elements. It includes the City of Harlingen's incorporated area and its Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ). The planning area encompasses a total area of approximately 230.8 square miles, including about 39 square miles within the Harlingen city limits and about 191.8 square miles of unincorporated Cameron County within the City's 5-mile ETJ. The planning area boundary is illustrated in Figure 1-1, shown previously in Chapter 1 - Introduction.

Previous Parks & Recreation Plans and Studies

Available plans and studies previously prepared to address parks and recreation for the City of Harlingen were reviewed and considered in the development of the Comprehensive Plan. These relevant plans and studies include the following documents:

Park Land Acquisition Study

• Park Land Acquisition Study (May 30, 1991) - The purpose of this study was to identify the location of possible future park sites and identify the project site for a proposed park land acquisition project, which was included in a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department application. Specific sites were identified for proposed large community and linkage park sites, and approximate locations were identified for proposed neighborhood park sites that will be determined more precisely in the future. Prepared for the City of Harlingen by Schrickel, Rollins and Associates, Inc., this study identified the need for a total of 664 acres of parkland compared to 356 acres of existing city park property in 1990. Specific new facility needs were identified and included 21 additional football/soccer fields, 10 softball fields, 10 basketball courts, 9 tennis courts, 7 picnic shelters, 6 playgrounds, 2 swimming pools, 1 baseball field, 1 indoor recreation facility, and 12 miles of hike and bike trails. Acquisition of up to 10 community park and linkage park sites, together with development of about 10 neighborhood park sites was recommended over a period of 5 to 10 years. The study also recommended that Victor Park be sold for development as a major tourism center including a hotel and convention facilities; and that a portion of Ramsey Park be sold as a retail site.

Parks and Open Space Master Plan

• Parks and Open Space Master Plan (February 19, 1992) - This master plan was prepared for the City of Harlingen by Schrickel, Rollins and Associates, Inc., to provide guidance in the orderly planning, acquisition, and development of the City's parks and open space system. The plan identifies existing conditions including population, land use, city properties, and park and school sites. Although population is increasing south of the Arroyo Colorado (as a percent of total city population) there is almost no existing park property located south of the Arroyo. Community parkland acquisition and facility development needs are identified consistent with the findings and recommendations of the Parkland Acquisition Study, which was prepared together with the comprehensive park system plan. Alternative funding sources, land acquisition techniques, administrative approaches, and community involvement opportunities were also outlined. Recommended policies for plan implementation were identified. Annual review and complete revision of the plan every 10 years were recommended.

Outdoor Recreation Needs Analysis

• The Harlingen Outdoor Recreation Plan Needs Analysis for Years 1990 and 1995 (January 1, 1991) - Prepared by the City of Harlingen Parks and Recreation Department, this study addresses local, State, Federal and private roles in providing outdoor recreation opportunities, and described the powers and duties of the Harlingen Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. Harlingen's environmental and socio-economic setting are reviewed, including topography, climate, precipitation, population, economy, transportation, and land use. The City's outdoor recreation program is identified and analyzed, including existing facilities, priority needs for 1990 and 1995, and existing recreational facilities of the Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District are inventoried. Methodology and results of the needs analysis are documented. The identified needs for additional outdoor recreation facilities for 1990 included 7 basketball courts, 15.6 acres of playgrounds, and 3.6 miles of hike and bike trail. In 1995, the needs increased to 9 basketball courts, 20.4 acres of playgrounds, and 4.7 miles of trail.

Year 2000 Parks, Open Space and Trail Master Plan

• Year 2000 Parks, Open Space & Trail Master Plan/Recovery Action Plan (July 19, 2000) - Prepared for the City of Harlingen by Halff Associates, Inc., this study includes an inventory of the existing recreation facilities in the city, an analysis of recreation programs and facility needs in the city, goals for the Park and Recreation system, identifies significant issues and solutions to address the key recreation needs in the city, and creates a ten-year Action Plan. The Action Plan was created to prioritize implementation of the Master Plan, guide the rehabilitation of existing parks, provide guidance in the application of General Obligation Bond funding, and suggest alternative funding mechanisms for a ten-year time period. The Master Plan outlines a vision for parks, greenbelts and nature preserves that would create a strong recreation infrastructure, connect the major features of the city, and help create a more attractive Harlingen. Due to the comprehensiveness and timeliness of the Halff study, it forms a major portion of this chapter.

Public Input

Citizen input is key to determining what facilities are most needed. In the Halff study, several methods were used to gain citizen input. These included public presentations to the park Board, an extensive city-wide telephone survey, interviews conducted with key recreation providers, citizens and users of governmental entities in Harlingen, and city-wide public meetings and hearings.

One of the objectives of the parks and recreation plan is to allow for maximum citizen input in development of the update. As a component of the citizen involvement strategies, a survey was conducted sampling residents in the community to generate an analysis of their attitudes and how they relate to recreation in the city. The survey was designed to examine residents' participation in recreational activities, as well as to access recreational needs in the community. In addition, interviews were conducted with elected public officials, key city staff members, and other key community leaders. Each person interviewed was given a copy of the telephone survey to respond to. In general, the responses of community leaders tracked those opinions expressed in the telephone survey. Several public meetings were also held to address any concerns regarding the plan recommendations.

Existing City Parks and Recreation System

The City of Harlingen has an existing system of 22 parks with approximately 433 acres spread throughout the city that currently provide outdoor recreation facilities. These parks range in size from small neighborhood parks of barely 0.2 acres to large community parks totaling almost 80 acres in size. A key part of the park planning process is developing an understanding of what park and open space facilities are currently available. By comparing the available facilities with the number of people that the parks system serves, as well as the most frequent type of uses, the need for new or improved recreational facilities can be determined.

Development of the Year 2000 Parks Master Plan included analysis and evaluation of the Harlingen area's existing parks and recreation system, based upon available information from existing sources. Existing city parks are depicted on the Parks and Recreation Facilities Map shown in Figure 7-1. In addition, there are school playgrounds and private recreation facilities that provide recreation and open space in the Harlingen area. The City of Harlingen and Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District have a reciprocal agreement which allows joint use of city and school recreation facilities. Characteristics of the existing city parks and recreation facilities are summarized in the following paragraphs.

Dixieland Park

This 20-acre community park is located at the south terminus of Dixieland Road adjacent to the city's 90-acre Dixieland Reservoir. Facilities include 4 football/soccer fields, 2 backstops, playgrounds and picnic areas, a disc golf course, plus a pavilion used for group activities by advance reservation only.

J. J. Victor Park

This 42-acre community park is located at S. Expwy. 77/83 and "M" Street. Facilities include 3 lighted softball fields, 1 lighted and 1 unlighted little league baseball field, 12 football/soccer fields, 6 tennis courts, playground equipment, a 50 meter swimming pool, 20 open picnic facilities and 3 pavilions.

Lon C. Hill Park

With a total of 93 acres, this park is the principal community and regional park facility for the Harlingen area. Located at Fair Park Boulevard and "L" Street, the park includes the following major facilities and areas:

• Municipal Auditorium - This air conditioned performing arts and special events facility has seating capacity for 1,873 persons, and includes state-of-the-art sound and stage lighting systems;
  
• Municipal Baseball Stadium - The lighted outdoor stadium has seating capacity for up to 3,800 people and includes indoor locker rooms, refreshment stands, and surface parking area. The stadium is the home field of the Harlingen WhiteWings, as well as serving the Harlingen High School Cardinals, Harlingen South High School Hawks and other community leagues;
  
• Casa De Amistad - This civic center/special events facility contains 16,000 square feet of air conditioned space with seating capacity for up to 867 people;
  
• Swimming Pool - Outdoor 25-meter, 160,000 gallon swimming pool;
  
• Ebony Groves - Large group picnic facilities; and,
  
• Additional Facilities - Softball field, kickball field, outdoor basketball court, in-line skating rink, playground equipment, 10 horseshoe courts, 5 open shelters, travel trailer park, and parks maintenance shop.

Zavala Park

Located at Lafayette and "B" Street, this 1.5 acre neighborhood park includes an open picnic shelter and playground equipment.

Bowie Park

This 2.0 acre community park at Madison and 2nd Street serves tourists and other users with the following recreation facilities:

• Casa Del Sol - Air conditioned meeting and exhibit hall has seating capacity for 667 people with public address system;
  
• Harlingen Community Center - This air-conditioned 15,000 square foot community center building has seating capacity for 713 people, with public address system. The facility is utilized for Winter Texan activities from mid-November to mid April and is open to the public by reservation the remainder of the year; and
  
• Shuffleboard Bowl - Outdoor area includes 25 shuffleboard courts.

Lt. George Gutierrez, Jr. Veterans Memorial Park

Harlingen's World War II memorial is located on this 2.0 acre community park, which occupies the plaza at Harrison and "E" Street and includes a bandstand gazebo, picnic/domino tables and benches, and playground equipment.

C. B. Wood Park

Located at Wilson Ave. and Arroyo Colorado, this 6.23 acre neighborhood park, includes access to the Arroyo Hike & Bike Trail and a pavilion and playground equipment.

Rangerville Park

This 26.0 acre community park located at 1101 Rangerville Road, includes 4 soccer/football fields, 4 practice fields, a pavilion, open picnic shelter and tables, playground equipment and a .9 mile hike/bike trail.

Sam Houston Park

Located at Taft Avenue and South 6th Street, this 7.0 acre neighborhood park site includes playground equipment, a field sports area, and 2 tennis courts.

Travis Park

This 2.0 acre neighborhood park site at E. Tyler Avenue and South 6th Street includes the Lon C. Hill Memorial Building (old library), outdoor garden area, picnic table and playground equipment. The Lon C. Hill Building is used as City of Harlingen administrative offices.

City Lake Park

Developed as a U.S. Bicentennial Project, this 8.0 acre community park on '76 Drive is the site for the following facilities:

• Harlingen Public Library;
  
• Harlingen Cultural Arts Center - Air-conditioned building includes 5,000 square feet used for meetings and cultural arts activities;
  
• Liberty Garden - Outdoor garden area with formal landscaping, paths and children's area; and,
  
• Trail - .95 mile hike/bike trail along shoreline of City Lake.

Hunter Park

This 2.0 acre neighborhood park located at 3rd and McGregor includes an open shelter and playground facilities.

Pendleton Park

This large community park is located on a 39.0 acre site at Morgan Boulevard and Grimes Avenue. Recognized as the most beautiful city park in the Rio Grande Valley, it includes the following facilities:

• Pavilion - Large group picnic pavilion with barbecue pits and seating for up to 350 people;
  
• Tennis Courts - 12 lighted tennis courts and pro shop;· Baseball and Softball Fields - 4 lighted and 3 unlighted ball fields; and,
  
• Additional Facilities - Picnic facilities, 3 sets of playground equipment, and overnight camping area for Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts or similar groups.

Bonham Park

Located at 21st Street and Madison, this 0.5 acre neighborhood park includes playground equipment, open shelter, and picnic facilities.

Revere Park

This 0.2 acre neighborhood park is located on North Parkwood and includes a formal landscaped area.

Windsor Park

This 2.0 acre neighborhood park is located at 77 Sunshine Strip and Filmore Avenue. Facilities include heavily utilized playground equipment, picnic facilities, and permanent barbecue pits.

McKelvey Park

This 10.9 acre community park developed with the Harlingen Council of Garden Clubs at 77 Sunshine Strip and the Arroyo Colorado includes access to the Arroyo Hike & Bike trail, landscaping, other hike & bike trails and fishing areas.

Arroyo Park

Located at New Hampshire Street and Hale Drive, this 60.0 acre community park includes 6 ball fields, 0.25 mile hike/bike trail and playground equipment.

Sports Complex Park

This 79.7 acre community park located on Wilson Road, west of N. Expwy. 77 includes 12 ball fields, 2 football/soccer fields, 1.0 mile hike/bike trail, 2 pavilions, picnic facilities and playground equipment. The park includes 30 acres of undeveloped land.

Hugh Ramsey Nature Park

Named for Harlingen's Mayor from 1936-46 and 1948-50, this 36 acre community park is east of Loop 499 and north of the Arroyo Colorado. A 1.5 mile hike/bike trail, birding, hiking, fishing, and outdoor education uses are adjacent to the Arroyo Colorado Hike/Bike Trail.

McCullough Park

This unimproved park site includes 1.5 acres located at Ed Carey Drive and the Arroyo Colorado.

Vestal Park

This 14.0 acre park site is located east of the Southern Pacific Railroad between Ona and Lozano and is being developed as a soccer-practice facility.

Arroyo Colorado Hike & Bike Trail

The initial 2.1 mile phase of the Arroyo Colorado Hike & Bike Trail opened in July 2000 and is serving recreational needs for area residents and promoting bicycling, jogging and walking along the scenic waterway. Other trails and routes for both on-street and off-street hike & bike facilities are recommended in the Bicycle System Master Plan which is included in the Transportation Element of the Comprehensive Plan.

Standards for Development of Parks and Recreation

According to the Halff study, National and State guidelines identify three broad categories of parks, which are: Local Close to Home Space, Regional Space and Unique Space. Close to Home parks are the most important category and of greatest concern to the City of Harlingen. However, given the city's setting along the Arroyo Colorado, special attention is given to the Unique Space category. Close to Home parks address day to day facilities for all ages and activities, and are usually within walking or driving distance from where we live. The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) published the Recreation Park and Open Space Standards and Guidelines in 1987. It outlines suggested standards and guidelines for the development of recreation parks and open spaces. The suggested standards from the NRPA are illustrated in Table 7-1. The system of neighborhood, community and linear parks are outlined along with a description of desirable size and service population. The four close to home park types currently existing in Harlingen are: neighborhood parks, community parks, special use parks and linear parks.

Neighborhood Parks

Neighborhood parks provide the foundation for recreation in the Local Close to Home park system. Ideally, they provide facilities and recreation space for the entire family, but are within easy walking or bicycling distance of the people they serve. The neighborhood park typically serves one large or several smaller neighborhoods. The ideal neighborhood park in Harlingen, generally 5 to 10 acres in size, should serve no more than 3,000 to 5,000 residents per park. Ideally, neighborhood parks should be accessible to residents who live within one-half mile radius of the park. Neighborhood parks are frequently located adjacent to elementary schools, so as to share acquisition and development costs with the school district. Neighborhood parks are generally located away from major arterial streets and provide easy access for the users that surround it. A neighborhood park should be accessible without having to cross major arterial streets.

The size of a neighborhood park may vary considerably due to physical locations around the park. An ideal size for neighborhood parks in Harlingen should be around five acres. Parks may range in size from a minimum of two acres to a maximum of 10 acres. In general, the size of the existing neighborhood parks in Harlingen is well within the desired range of sizes.

If possible, neighborhood parks should be centrally located in neighborhoods that they serve. An ideal location, for example, is adjacent to an elementary school. The park should be accessible to pedestrian traffic from all parts of the area served, and should be located adjacent to local or minor collector streets which do not allow high-speed traffic.

Facilities generally located in neighborhood parks include the following: playground equipment on a safety surface; unlighted practice fields for baseball, soccer, football; unlighted tennis courts; unlighted multi-purpose courts; active areas for unorganized play; picnic areas with benches, picnic tables and cooking grills; shaded pavilions and gazebos; jogging exercise trails and security lighting.

Parking should vary based on the size of the park and facilities provided. A minimum of eight spaces per new neighborhood park is recommended with an additional two handicapped spaces per neighborhood park. The exact amount of parking needed will vary based on the size of the park, the facilities it contains and the number of users.

Community Parks

Community parks are larger parks that serve a group of neighborhoods or a portion of the city. Community parks are usually reached by automobile, although residents adjacent to the park and trail users may walk or bicycle to it. A variety of recreational facilities are provided, included in some cases, lighted playing fields for organized sports, hike/bike trails and sufficient parking to accommodate participants, spectators, and other park users.

The typical community park should be large enough so it can provide a variety of facilities, while still leaving open space for unstructured recreation and natural areas. The park should also have room for expansion, as new facilities are required. A typical community park varies in size from 15 acres to over 50 acres.

Community parks should be located near a major thoroughfare to provide easy access from different parts of the city. Because of the potential for noise and bright lights at night, community parks should be buffered from adjacent residential areas.

Facilities generally located in community parks may include: play equipment; active free play areas; picnic areas and pavilions; restrooms; jogging, bicycle or nature trails; lighted ball fields, suitable for organized competitive events; recreation center, if appropriate; sufficient off-street parking based on facilities provided and size of park; security lighting and other facilities as needed which can take advantage of the unique characteristics of the site, such as nature trails or fishing adjacent to ponds, swimming pools, amphitheaters, etc.

Parking varies based on the facilities provided and the size of the park. NRPA recommends a minimum of five spaces per acre, plus additional parking for specific facilities within the park such as pools or ballfields.

Linear Parks

Linear parks are open park areas that generally follow some natural or man-made feature that is linear in nature, such as irrigation canals, abandoned railroad right-of-way or overhead power line easements. In the case of Harlingen, these types of parks could follow all three. Properly developed to facilitate pedestrian and bicycle travel, these parks can serve to link or connect other parks in the local system, as well as schools, libraries, and other major destinations. No specific standards apply to linear/linkage parks other than that they are large enough to adequately accommodate the resources they follow. They can also serve as linear greenbelts, which preserve open space, as in the case with the Arroyo Colorado as it crosses diagonally through Harlingen.

Special Purpose Parks

Special purpose parks are designed to accommodate specialized recreational activities. Because the facility needs for each activity type are different, each special purpose park usually provides for one or a few activities. Examples of special purpose parks include golf courses; athletic field or complexes; nature centers or large natural preserves and tennis complexes.

The suggested standards from the NRPA are illustrated in Table 7-1. As noted, the system of neighborhood, community and linear parks are outlined along with the description of desirable size and service population.

Table 7-1

RECOMMENDED CLASSIFICATION AND DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR
LOCAL RECREATION PARKS AND OPEN SPACE
Harlingen's Vision 2020 Comprehensive Plan
Harlingen, Texas

Needs Assessment for Parks and Recreation

In order to assess the adequacy of the existing parks and recreation supply, it is necessary to look at existing population, the supply of parks provided by existing facilities including planned improvements or expansions, and relate them to recognized standards for desirable levels of service for parks and recreation. In addition, it is necessary to consider forecasts of future population to determine future parks and recreation needs and to identify deficiencies in order that the needs may be addressed.

Methods of Assessing Park Needs

In the Halff study, three techniques were used in evaluating the City of Harlingen's current and future park needs. These techniques follow general methodologies accepted by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for local parks master plans and by the Department of the Interior for local park system Recovery Action Plans.

1. Standard-Based Approach - uses standards established by the local jurisdiction to determine the quantity of park facilities required to meet the city's need at a given population. Standards are established to provide the level of service that the particular jurisdiction believes is most responsive to the amount of use and the interests of its citizens.

2. Demand-Based Approach - uses participation rates, league usage data, and surveys to determine how much the population uses and desires certain types of recreation facilities.

3. Resource-Based Approach - is based on the usefulness of available resources to provide recreation opportunities. For example, the Arroyo Colorado may provide opportunities for scenic overlooks and nature trails. Irrigation canals may also provide opportunities for linear parks.

All three methods are important in their own way, but individually do not represent the entire story. This assessment, and the recommendations resulting from it, uses findings from all three methods to determine what types of recreation facilities are needed in Harlingen.

Spatial standards for parks and recreational areas are established so that sufficient area is available to allow for all the outdoor recreation needs of a community. These standards will allow Harlingen to plan ahead, so that parkland can be targeted and acquired before it is developed. These spatial standards are expressed as the number of acres of park per 1,000 inhabitants.

The recommended spatial standard for neighborhood parks is 1.5 to 2.5 acres per 1,000 population. For community parks, the recommended standard is 5.0 to 8.0 acres per 1,000 population.

Neighborhood Parks

The Halff study found that on a citywide basis with 24.5 total acres, the city currently has a ratio of 0.40 acres per 1,000 population, which represents a significant deficit. By the year 2005, 96 acres, or up to 10 additional neighborhood parks could be needed. By the year 2015, 113 acres could be needed. However, on a neighborhood by neighborhood basis, the large number of community parks makes up for much of the need for neighborhood parks. In addition, school park sites can also be added to greatly improve the distribution of neighborhood parks throughout the city. Several residential areas around the city are not adequately served by the existing supply of neighborhood parks. These include:

• The area north of Rio Hondo Road, which currently has no neighborhood parks and is served mainly by Pendleton Park, a major community park;
  
• The western area of the city, which currently is served only by the Sports Complex, and which has no existing neighborhood parks;
  
• The far southeastern portion of the city around Treasure Hills and east of Ed Carey Drive, which currently has no neighborhood park; and
  
• The far southwestern quadrant of the city, which while less populated, is growing quickly and which is only served by Dixieland Park.

Community Parks

At present, Harlingen is meeting its community needs and is maintaining a surplus. The city's supply of 351 acres of community parks consists of a ratio of 5.87 acres per 1,000 population. However, by the year 2008 a minimum of an additional 25 acres should be acquired to meet needs in newly developing sectors of the city. Areas with potential community park needs are:

• The northern sector of the city in the vicinity of Loop 499; and
  
• The far eastern portion of the city, which is currently predominantly industrial in nature and thus offers a good location for facilities that require extensive lighting or that will generate heavy vehicular traffic, such as athletic complexes.

Other Community Park Issues - An additional 100+ acres of city-owned land are currently available to be developed as community parks, and could be used to alleviate the need for additional community parklands.

Special Purpose Parks

The City currently has three special purpose parks. These include the Tony Butler Golf Course, the H.E. Butt Tennis Center and the Hugh Ramsey Park. No specific standards are recommended for special purpose parks; however, specific facilities should be provided as necessary.

Linear Parks Opportunities

Harlingen has perhaps more opportunities for linear parks or trail corridors than any other city in the Rio Grande Valley. The irrigation canals spread throughout the city offer a unique opportunity for linear or linkage parks. These parks can connect other parks or key areas of the city, and are relatively inexpensive to develop. These parks can also begin to address much of the deficiencies in neighborhood parks. All these corridors are controlled by non-city entities, and as such will require interlocal agreements between the parties involved.

A Summary of Key Recreation Needs

The following statements summarize the key findings of the City of Harlingen's park system Needs Assessment from the Halff study.

• The two most popular community parks, J.J. Victor Park and Pendleton Park, suffer from overuse. Both parks, but especially J.J. Victor Park, have too many facilities crowded into too little area.
  
• The exploding popularity of soccer has resulted in the continued addition of soccer fields at Victor Park, resulting in very little unstructured play space.
  
• Other parks, such as the Sports Complex and Fair Park, are used, but not nearly as much as J.J. Victor and Pendleton Parks. Facilities must be transferred from the two most-used parks to the two lesser-used parks to encourage citizens to go to the other parks.
  
• Ball fields at J.J. Victor and Pendleton Parks require improvements to bleachers, scorekeepers and concession buildings, drainage and fencing.
  
• The renovation of existing parks is a high need according to citizen feedback. Some of the renovation and improvements to existing parks will require placing overcrowded facilities in other new facilities, such as a new consolidated soccer complex.
  
• All existing parks require some upgrades to parking areas, playgrounds, pavilions, site furnishings and other facilities. Much of these improvements to existing parks are already in progress through pro-active efforts of the Parks Department and as funded by bond initiatives by the citizens of Harlingen.
  
• In particular, continued attention should be given to playground safety, especially in light of rapidly changing regulations by the recreation industry and by federal and state regulators. Fall zones should be carefully reviewed and maintained, and adequate safety surfaces should be placed and maintained under and around every playground structure.
  
• The city has a significant shortage of neighborhood parks, but this is made up by the availability of community parks and school facilities throughout the city.· The city needs to acquire land for at least four neighborhood parks over the next 10 years. Some or all of these can be acquired jointly with the Harlingen Independent School District.
  
• The acquisition of land and the development of a neighborhood park in the northern sector of the city, north of Rio Hondo Road is a high priority.· The city does not need to acquire land for new community parks immediately, but may choose to do so in the northern sector of the city so as to purchase land at lower cost. Again, this land could be purchased jointly with the Harlingen Independent School District.
  

• The preservation of lands along the top of the Arroyo Colorado in undeveloped portions of the city is a key ongoing need. Policies must be developed quickly to encourage the donation of Arroyo lands.
  

The highest priority for facilities, based on facility usage and standards, is for a) nature viewing facilities, of which the city only has one, b) trails with the city lacking 1 to 7 miles of hard surface trails, c) a soccer complex, especially with fields for nighttime adult usage, d) pavilions, which are in extremely high demand, and with the possibility of an additional six being needed, e) softball fields, with at least two new fields being needed, f) additional swimming facilities, with at least one major new pool required, g) the addition of new baseball and soccer practice areas throughout the city, and h) a recreation center as a longer range need.

Based on citizen expressed desires, the highest priorities are for picnicking facilities and new pavilions, nature areas preservation and bird watching facilities, additional trails, playgrounds (updates to playgrounds already in progress by city Parks staff), the development of a new pool, and the addition of a recreation center.

Harlingen Parks and Recreation System Master Plan Recommendations

Based on the Needs Assessment, the Halff study recommended a series of park improvements for Harlingen. These recommendations address the need for land for new parks, additional neighborhood parks, the need for a new swimming pool a recreation center, the need for additional athletic field improvements, opportunities for trails, and general improvements to existing parks. These recommendations should be implemented over the general life of the master plan. The suggested improvements fall into four general categories as shown below:

• Providing needed recreation facilities;
  
• Acquiring land for future parks, especially in areas where significant growth is anticipated;
  
• Improvements to existing parks; and,
  
• Development of additional trails and greenbelts throughout the city.

Development of Needed Park Facilities

The master plan includes recommendations for specific types of recreation facilities and new parks to address those facility needs. As stated above, these facilities can be accommodated in existing parks as well as future parks to be developed. The Needs Assessment indicates an immediate need for the following facilities.

• Nature tourism facilities throughout the city, in particular at the site where the World Birding Center is to be developed;
  
• Soccer facilities to alleviate overuse of Victor Park;
  
• Additional picnic facilities, including large pavilions;
  
• Additional multi-purpose courts;
  
• New swimming facilities, including an additional pool and spray pool facilities; and
  
• A citywide recreation center.

High Priority

Recommendations to address the facility needs as illustrated above are as follows:

• Develop nature tourism facilities - Existing facilities at Ramsey Park are rudimentary, and should be improved with the increased focus on the World Birding Center. Facilities include improved trails, viewing stations, interpretative pavilions, classroom facilities, and support needs such as parking, restrooms and signage.
  
• Develop Soccer facilities - a new soccer complex is needed to consolidate soccer fields and to develop additional adult soccer fields. City owned land on the east side of the city could be used for new soccer fields.
  
• Develop additional softball fields - at least two new softball fields are needed to provide additional playing capacity at the Sports Complex.
  
• Multi-sport practice fields - There are few practice fields located in existing parks, both in the north sector of the city. These fields have a dual use as practice football and soccer fields. If a new soccer complex is built, land should be reserved for practice areas adjacent to the competition fields.
  
• Practice fields for softball and baseball - the need for open space and backstops for baseball and softball practice was noted in the Needs Assessment. At least 10 additional practice backstops and fields are required. They should be placed in new neighborhood parks which are developed in the near future.
  
• Develop new swimming facilities - to alleviate overcrowding at the two city operated pools, an additional pool is recommended as a high priority.

Medium Priority

• Basketball courts - The city currently has a total of 3 basketball courts in city-owned parks. One to two courts should be added at Victor, Pendleton and fair parks, and a full or half court should be included in each new neighborhood park.
  
• Develop a city-wide recreation center - A recreation center will provide a healthful and attractive environment in which every person in Harlingen has the opportunity to enjoy participation in the activities of a social, creative and/or physical nature. Public input, as well as, the needs assessment showed great support for a recreation center with a swimming pool and meeting rooms.

Addressing Park Acreage Deficiencies-Neighborhood Parks

High Priority

• Acquire land in the north sector of the city for a neighborhood park - There are no neighborhood parks in the northern sector of the city, and the rapid growth in this area requires at least one and ideally two neighborhood parks between Rio Hondo Road and Loop 499. Consider developing the parks on school properties in the area if feasible. Acquire five acres for each of the neighborhood parks within the next year if feasible.
  
• Acquire 5 acres in west sector for a neighborhood park - The area west of Business 77 and north of Highway 83 does not currently have any neighborhood parks, and has only the Sports Complex to provide close by recreation space. Growth in this area will continue over the next 5 to 10 years, and acquisition of land for a park should be a high priority.

Medium Priority

• Acquire land for a neighborhood park in the southeastern and southwestern sectors of the city - Increased development in these areas over the next ten years will result in the need for additional parks in the area. Land for parks in this area should be acquired in conjunction with the school district.

Community Parks
High Priority

• No action required.

Medium Priority

• Acquire land for new community park in the northern quadrant of the city, north of Loop 499 - Pendleton Park is the only large park in the area, and as a result is over-utilized. A 30 to 50 acre tract of land should be purchased for eventual development as a community park and athletic facilities in the area. Tracts with unique natural features such as clusters of trees and water should be considered.

Develop Additional Trails

• Hike & Bike Trails - The need for trails in Harlingen were expressed strongly by the citizens as a high priority. Harlingen currently has a total of 6.0 mile of trail. Approximately 6+ miles of trails are recommended during the life of the plan.

Summary of Recommendations

Figure 7.2 illustrates conceptually the recommendations for the Parks, Open Space and Trail Master Plan providing a comprehensive look at future parks and how they relate with the core trail elements.

Site Selection Criteria For Parks

Many factors affect the selection of a site for use as a park. The degree of influence various factors will have on a particular site depends on the proposed program of facilities for the park. Until a majority of the service area for a particular park has been developed and occupied, the development of park use demands and corresponding the park facilities and program is ongoing and not finalized. Residents of the service areas should have opportunity to participate in the design process of their parks. Potential park sites should be evaluated and identified prior to development of the service area. Dedication of parkland as development occurs would provide for orderly and efficient development of parks to serve expanding user demands.

Typical facilities that may be included in neighborhood parks include the following facilities program, which may be used to evaluate potential park sites:

• Shelter, 16' x 20' minimum;
• Picnic area, tables and benches;
• Walkways/exercise course;
• Informal playing field;
• Double tennis courts - May be located in conjunction with school sites;
• Shaded areas;
• Restrooms - Should be provided in parks which are utilized for longer duration than most neighborhood parks or on larger parks greater than 10 acres;
• Drinking fountains;
• Security lighting; and,
• Open play area.

As potential sites are evaluated, the most suitable uses of the various sites should be identified. This will insure various sites are selected that are adaptable to all aspects of Harlingen's park program. The principal objective is to provide a public park system throughout the community that will service the recreational needs of the residents and offer a variety of outdoor recreational experiences for the whole community.

The general site selection criteria and principal considerations include the following factors:

• Topography:

  - Minimum 50 percent of site should have a maximum gradient of 4 percent;
  - Areas exceeding 15 percent gradient may increase needed overall size of park to accommodate programmed uses;
  - Runoff should drain properly from developed areas;
  - Desirable views into and out of the site should be optimized;

• Soils:

  - Naturally occurring topsoil should be suitable for turf grasses and trees;
  - Area should be protected from soil erosion prior to, during, and after development;

• Vegetation:

- Natural or landscaped vegetation should include grass areas and trees, with hardy, low maintenance species preferred for planted vegetation;
- Examples of significant individual specimens or unique wildlife habitats are desirable;
- Irrigation systems should be provided for intensively utilized areas such as playing fields and landscaped areas;

• Water Features:

- Natural and developed waterways should be protected and considered in planning of storm drainage systems;
- Water features such as ponds, lakes, canals, and arroyos are desirable to provide water oriented recreation opportunity and aesthetic value, with appropriate provision for maintenance and safety;

• Access and Location:

  - Should be readily accessible to the service area by pedestrians, bicycles and vehicles;
  - Should have collector street frontage;
  - Access to linear parks and linkages are desirable;
  - Centrally located within designated service area;
  - May serve as buffer between different land uses or types of residential development; and,
  - Park/school sites may be considered if stand alone site and linear park relationship are not feasible and public usage will not conflict with school activities.

Goals and Objectives

The goals and objectives for the Parks and Recreation Element of the Comprehensive Plan are outlined in this section. The goals and objectives were derived from the original comprehensive plan and updated during the 2000 Parks Master Plan process based on input from meetings with the citizens of Harlingen, the Parks Advisory Board, Parks and Recreation staff and the City Commission.

The ultimate goal for the Parks and Recreation Element is to identify, protect, and enhance the natural and built environment and image of Harlingen, by providing city parks and maintaining important open spaces, along with providing opportunities for diverse recreational activities. The following goals and objectives are derived from the issues that were identified in the plan development process.

Parks, Recreation and Open Space System

Goal 7.1 Create and maintain an accessible parks and recreation system for enjoyment by residents and visitors alike.

Obj. 7.1.a Implement a long-range program for expansion and development of Harlingen's parks system based upon the City of Harlingen Park and Open Space Master Plan.

Obj. 7.1.b Establish parks and open space standards and incentives for new development for inclusion in the City of Harlingen Subdivision Ordinance; and,Obj.

7.1.c Provide adequate funding and resources to perform necessary maintenance and repairs and to construct needed improvements at the City's existing and future parks and recreation facilities.

Obj. 7.1.d Encourage and provide opportunities for citizens to participate in planning, development, maintenance, and operation of the City's parks and open space system.

Obj. 7.1.e Periodically update the long range plan and standards to reflect changing conditions in the city, as well as additional citizen input.

Parks and Recreation Facilities and Programs

Goal 7.2 Provide a diversity of parks and recreation activities at appropriate locations throughout the city.

Obj. 7.2.a Encourage and promote sports and recreation activities, cultural activities, community activities, and special events to enhance tourism and visitation within the area;

Obj. 7.2.b Develop the recreational resources and opportunities which are inherent in the landscape and outdoor environment of the Valley, including water recreation, bird watching, golfing, hunting and fishing, theme parks, and natural areas;

Obj. 7.2.c Actively promote and participate in the development of facilities and programs for the World Birding Center, especially the satellite facilities to be located in Harlingen at Ramsey Park and at other locations in the city along the Arroyo Colorado;

Obj. 7.2.d Take an active role in supporting enhancement and visitation at Bentsen State Park and both Santa Ana and Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuges;

Obj. 7.2.e Expand golfing opportunity and tourism attractions by constructing additional public-use golf courses and driving ranges; and,

Obj. 7.2.f Provide facilities for a wide range of active and passive recreation activities including baseball, softball, soccer, football, basketball, tennis, swimming, biking, bicycle motocross, in-line skating, shuffleboard, fishing, picnicking, hiking, bird watching, and other popular activities.

Unique Natural Areas and Inhabitants

Goal 7.3 Preserve and protect unique natural open spaces and important habitat areas for threatened and endangered species of plants and wildlife.

Obj. 7.3.a Enhance and preserve the environmental quality of the Arroyo Colorado by protecting and improving its importance for open space, drainage, water quality, habitat for plants and wildlife, outdoor recreation, scenic landscape amenities, and natural areas for the City of Harlingen and the entire Valley;

Obj. 7.3.b Establish and maintain bird sanctuary areas that will enhance and maintain birdlife, promote birding activity, and develop eco-tourism;

Obj. 7.3.c Acquire and maintain sufficient unique natural areas and significant open spaces for public use, with special attention to high quality natural or open space areas that are likely to be developed with incompatible uses in the near future;

Obj. 7.3.d Plan, coordinate, acquire, and maintain public open space based upon consideration of scenic and unique natural characteristics and important natural functions that the land performs;

Obj. 7.3.e Utilize and enforce sound floodplain management to maintain the water carrying capacity of drainageways, channels and floodplain areas; and,

Obj. 7.3.f Encourage educational institutions and nonprofit organizations to acquire, manage, and operate natural and open space conservation areas.

Green Linkages, Bikeways and Trails

Goal 7.4 Develop a network of pedestrian and bicycle ways for hiking, jogging, and cycling throughout the Harlingen area, including an interconnected system of paths, trails, lanes, and routes that are multipurpose, accessible, convenient, and connect to residential neighborhoods, parks, schools, workplaces, shopping, major open spaces, and other destinations.

Obj. 7.4.a Create and preserve green belt linkages of parks, open spaces, drainage-ways, irrigation canals, bikeways, paths, and natural areas throughout the City; and,

Obj. 7.4.b Coordinate with Cameron County, the City of San Benito and other municipalities, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, International Boundary and Waterway Commission, and other Federal, State and local governmental entities in efforts to preserve and enhance the waterways, green spaces, and natural areas within the Harlingen area.

Upgrade existing parks

Goal 7.5 Continue to upgrade existing parks in the city as a high priority, both to meet changing regulations and safety codes, and to improve the recreational qualities of each park.

Obj. 7.5.a Provide city parks staff with the manpower and funding resources to properly maintain all parklands and facilities; and

Obj. 7.5.b Develop renovation, improvement master plans for each park, as well as a tentative schedule for phasing in improvements;

Obj. 7.5.c Address key safety and accessibility needs as quickly as possible;

Obj. 7.5.d Provide adequate maintenance resources so that parks can be maintained in a superior manner; and,

Obj. 7.5.e Promote the use of native plant materials and xeriscape to reduce maintenance and irrigation costs in parks and on city properties.

Protect recreational investment

Goal 7.6 Establish proper funding to insure appropriate levels of staffing and maintenance to protect the recreational investment of the residents of Harlingen.

Obj. 7.6.a Encourage Commission member, city employee and citizen involvement in improving, expanding and maintaining the park, recreation and open space system;

Obj. 7.6.b Use linear parks and greenbelts to create low maintenance additions to the park system; and,

Obj. 7.6.c Use low-maintenance design plans for future park properties.