City of Medford Oregon - Bear Creek Master Plan Back to Planning Project Updates Applications and Handouts Map Gallery Plans Bear Creek Master Plan Comprehensive Plan Local Wetland Inventory Pre-Disaster Mitigation Regional Problem Solving Riparian Inventory Southeast Plan Transportation System Plan Wetland Recommendations Land Development Code - ZONING REGULATIONS Commissions and Committees Calendar Events FAQs Links 200 South Ivy Street Lausmann Annex: Room 240 Medford, Oregon 97501 Phone: (541) 774-2380 Fax: (541) 774-2564 Email: planning@ci.medfor. . . Hours: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM [advanced search] [sitemap] Bear Creek Master Plan Bear Creek Master Plan Table of Contents, Introduction, Methodology, & Purpose Site Conditions Previouse Studies Design Concepts Projects, Priorities, & Partners http://www.ci.medford.or.us/page.asp?navid=862 (1 of 30)12/1/2005 3:24:56 PM City of Medford Oregon - Bear Creek Master Plan Next Steps TOC with links --7 pages.pdf (739.4KB) This is the Adopted Bear Creek Master Plan (1/21/2003) The above document(s) are Adobe® Acrobat® PDF files and may be viewed using the free Adobe® Acrobat® Reader™. Most newer web browsers already contain the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader™ plug-in. However, if you need it, click on the "Get Acrobat® Reader™" icon to download it now. Printer friendly version Copyright 2003 Project A, Inc. | Webmaster | Privacy Policy HomeMayor & CouncilCity DepartmentsOnline ServicesCommissions & CommitteesGet Involved Home http://www.ci.medford.or.us/page.asp?navid=862 (2 of 30)12/1/2005 3:24:56 PM T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S � T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S SECTION ONE Introduction Pages 1 SECTION TWO Methodology 3 SECTION THREE Purpose of Plan 6 SECTION FOUR Site Conditions 7 SECTION FIVE Previous Studies 12 SECTION SIX First Public Workshop 13 SECTION SEVEN Design Concepts 15 SECTION EIGHT Second Public Workshop 36 SECTION NINE Projects, Priorities and Partners 37 SECTION TEN Next Steps 42 APPENDIX A Potential Uses and Activities APPENDIX B Comments from First Public Workshop APPENDIX C Public Questionnaire APPENDIX D Community Support B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n INTRODUCTION 1SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n I N T R O D U C T I O N 1 SECTION I N T R O D U C T I O N Over the course of the past 25 years the City of Medford has initiated the prepara- tion of numerous studies within the Bear Creek Corridor that bisects the community. Although there is a great trail system and some wonderful parks and natural areas, most of the ideas and aspirations concerning the creek corridor have yet to be realized. Today the Downtown turns its back to Bear Creek resulting in a highly urbanized core area and signs of pollution and neglect are apparent along the entire corridor. In February 2002, Design Studios West, Inc (DSW) was engaged, by the City of Medford and the Medford Urban Renewal Agency (MURA), to prepare a master plan for the seven and one-half mile length of the Bear Creek Corridor as it bisects the communi- ty. The study area encompasses a corridor that stretches from the north Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) (roughly Gilman Road) to the south UGB (near South Stage Road). The width of the study area fluctuates depending on development patterns and was defined by the City and MURA. PROJECT AREA Urban Growth Boundary Downtown Medford B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 1 1 After an extensive site investigation and careful review of all available existing information for the study area, a strategic approach for the preparation of the master plan was developed. The sentiment was not to prepare “just another study to sit and collect dust on a shelf”, but instead to prepare an “Action Plan” to kick start the immediate and future redevelopment of the corridor. A conscious effort was made not to disregard the ideas and themes so prominent in the previous studies but conversely, to build upon them. The strategy was to draw from and learn about existing environmental concerns, current user needs, and future community goals and ultimately to define a plan of action that will lead to implementa- tion. The following document is a summary of the steps taken by DSW working with the Bear Creek Masterplan Advisory Committee and Bear Creek Technical Advisory Committee and MURA to prepare a Plan of Action for the Bear Creek Corridor. I N T R O D U C T I O N 1 SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 2 M E T H O D O L O G Y 2SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n M E T H O D O L O G Y Public participation during a master planning process is paramount; especially when many valuable studies have been prepared over a number of years. Information can be lost or key thoughts about connections and relationships can be forgotten. Getting people that live, work, and play in a community, on a daily basis, to participate, share ideas, and communicate their dreams is crucial. The significant scale and distinct existing characteristics of various parts of the seven and one-half mile corridor required that the study area be broken into more man- ageable zones. Based on a site investigation and the approach of previous studies, the project area was divided into three zones. The North Zone is defined as within the creek corridor from the North UGB down to McAndrews Road. The Central Zone is defined as being within the creek corridor from McAndrews Road south to 12th Street (which later was extended south to a more logical break at Barnett Road). The South Zone is defined as being within the creek corridor from Barnett Road south to the South UGB. These three zones broke out logically for two reasons, each zone is approximately the same length and the character of the corridor transitions from natural (North Zone) to urban (Central Zone) and then back to natural again (South Zone). M E T H O D O L O G Y 2 SECTION North Zone Central Zone South Zone Downtown Medford B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 2 3 M E T H O D O L O G Y 2 SECTION Developing a design program for an area of this magnitude is challenging even after its segmentation into three zones. The public can be of great assistance to develop programming ideas and understand “favorite” places for improvement along the corridor. Using extensive base mapping provided by the City, three zones were defined for the first public meeting. During this meeting the design team called on the community at large to help define ideas and opportunities within the corridor and more than 100 citizens attend- ed. A series of display boards with 60 images that defined different “uses” to spark ideas were used during an “open house” format workshop. Each image was numbered for ref- erence and small white adhesive dots were provided to allow people to pick an image they preferred, write the corresponding number on a dot and place the dot in any location they deemed appropriate with the project zones. At the conclusion of this first workshop more than 350 dots were placed within the three zones. This information, along with numerous comments written on “Post-it” notes, helped inform and guide the develop- ment of a design program for the Bear Creek Corridor. One of four image boards used during the first public workshop. Before embarking on the design of the corridor the team discussed how to address the three distinct zones in the corridor while insuring continuity along the entire seven and one-half mile length. A conscious effort was made to build on existing assets B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 4 such as the trail system, parks, and many unique natural areas within the corridor. As the design phase progressed, it became apparent that numerous other projects along the corri- dor are either slated for implementation or currently in progress. Some of these projects include a sports park and a new interchange proposed for the South Zone, improvements to Interstate 5 in the Central Zone and a new interchange in the North Zone. The goal during the design process was to identify potential project areas and give them conceptual form. In the future, these areas will need to be paired with community partners to assure implementation. Assembling the various groups that will affect the future of the corridor and persuading them to embrace a common vision is imperative to the success of this action plan. Upon the completion of the design phase, a second public workshop was held to present conceptual design ideas encompassing the entire seven and one-half mile length of the corridor. The citizens that attended the workshop were very supportive and pro- vided great insight into potential project areas and their preferences for the concepts. A questionnaire was provided to help quantify, prioritize, and understand what areas people felt would make the best projects. The result of the questionnaire was two-fold. First, the public response was overwhelmingly supportive of the project. Secondly, a majority of the citizens feel that the Central Zone is the most problematic or had the most opportuni- ty and therefore should be the focus of the initial phases of implementation. Upon fur- ther discussion with members of the advisory committees, it became more apparent that an opportunity should be taken to implement projects in coordination with other pro- posed improvements to the corridor i.e. the south sports park. To take full advantage of these coordination opportunities “Partnerships” must be formed by all interested parties within the community of Medford. M E T H O D O L O G Y 2 SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 5 PURPOSE OF PLAN 3SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n P U R P O S E O F P L A N 3 SECTION P U R P O S E O F P L A N Upon initial consideration, a plan of this nature is prepared to document commu- nity wants, needs, and aspirations. More often these plans reflect the sentiment of a com- munities citizens at a particular point in time and weigh those views against the more lengthy span of a projects life. In the end, if one project is realized and becomes the impetus for the future resurgence of Bear Creek, then the plan is a success. To propagate this success it is critical that citizens consider the Bear Creek Masterplan to be a reality. While many of the concepts presented in the Plan require long-term implementation, there are a number of highly visible projects that can begin immediately. If the City of Medford proceeds with projects that improve, enhance, and protect the assets of Bear Creek while still allowing people to utilize the corridor, then it will have initiated a plan that will take on a life of itself while serving generations to come. B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 3 6 SITE CONDITIONS 4SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n S I T E C O N D I T I O N S 4 SECTION S I T E C O N D I T I O N S Over a two day period, DSW walked the entire length of the project area to get an appreciation for the scale and character of the creek corridor. During this trek, more than 750 digital images were taken that would be used during analysis and later to pro- duce sketches depicting design concepts. The basic impression was one of opportunity. There are currently many assets within the corridor that are being either underutilized or ignored. The opportunity lies in some wonderful natural areas that exist in both the North and South zones and a trail system that is popular to a wide cross section of the community. The challenge lies in the urbanized core area adjacent to the downtown where I-5 looms overhead and businesses turn their backs to the creek. In general, the corridor has many attributes that will be the foundation for a successful restoration and redevelopment plan. North Zone Central Zone South Zone B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 4 7 S I T E C O N D I T I O N S 4 SECTION SITE CHALLENGES Debris and pollution in water - Central Zone Interstate 5 overhead - Central Zone Chainlink fences and high walls - North Zone Erosion behind businesses - Central Zone Worn access points along creek - Central Zone Thick stands of Blackberry - South Zone B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 8 S I T E C O N D I T I O N S 4 SECTION SITE OPPORTUNITIES Strong Tributaries - Central Zone Mature overstory providing shade - Central Zone Healthy, stable creek bank in areas - South Zone Vigorous white water in some areas - Central Zone Good existing trail used by community - North Zone Large adjacent parks - Central Zone B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 9 S I T E C O N D I T I O N S 4 SECTION SITE PHOTOS Central Zone South Zone South Zone South Zone South Zone Central Zone B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 10 S I T E C O N D I T I O N S 4 SECTION SITE PHOTOS North Zone Central Zone North Zone North Zone Central Zone North Zone B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 11 PREVIOUS STUDIES 5SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n P R E V I O U S S T U D I E S 5 SECTION P R E V I O U S S T U D I E S During the design team’s first official visit to the City of Medford, digital files con- taining base information for the entire project area were provided. On this visit, volumes of previous plans and studies dating back over 15 years were also acquired. The following is a list of the resources that were referenced in the creation of the plan. Zoning and Land Use Regulations Property Ownership Mapping Medford Downtown/Bear Creek Vision Plan 1989 City Center Design Concept 99 Medford Stormwater Masterplan Bear Creek Ecological Survey 1989 Bear Creek Greenway Plan 1998 City of Medford Comprehensive Plan 2000 DEQ Reports RVCOG Reports Medford City Code Jackson County Code B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 5 12 FIRST PUBLIC WORKSHOP 6SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n F I R S T P U B L I C W O R K S H O P An initial public workshop was held in “open-house” format to draw ideas from the community. More than 100 peo- ple attended the session and many great ideas were discussed. Citizens were asked to help identify special areas for potential projects along the corridor and give thoughts about their future use. The result of this effort would culminate in a design pro- gram for the Bear Creek corridor that would guide the design process. F I R S T P U B L I C W O R K S H O P 6 SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 6 13 Programming "Top Ten List" from Public Meeting, March 14, 2002. The following are the top ten programming items for each zone along with the top ten items for the entire project corridor. North Zone 1. Enhanced creek area 2. Enhanced fish habitat 3. Pedestrian river crossing 4. Quiet overlook area 5. Enhanced creek vegetation 6. Creekside dining 7. Wetland area with trail 8. Integrated sculpture 9. Enhanced tributary features 10. Passive sitting area Central Zone 1. Businesses fronting creek 2. Creekside dining 3. Enhanced creek vegetation 4. Cantilevered plaza edge 5. Enhanced creek area 6. Colorful/festive atmosphere 7. Accessible water features 8. Common plaza facing creek 9. Attractive bridge treatment 10. Integrated sculpture South Zone 1. Interpretive trail 2. Wetland area with trail 3. Quiet overlook area 4. Constructed wetland 5. Enhanced fish habitat 6. Enhanced creek vegetation 7. Interpretive placard 8. Passive sitting area 9. Accessible water features 10. Enhanced tributary features All Zones (total project area) 1. Enhanced fish habitat 2. Enhanced creek vegetation 3. Quiet overlook area 4. Enhanced creek area 5. Interpretive trail 6. Creekside Dining 7. Wetland area with trail 8. Businesses fronting creek 9. Accessible water features 10. Integrated Sculpture F I R S T P U B L I C W O R K S H O P 6 SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n A series of four display boards with a total of 60 images that define differ- ent “uses” were used during an “open house” format workshop. Each image was numbered for reference and small white adhesive dots were provided for people to select an image they preferred, write the corre- sponding number on a dot and place the dot in any location they deemed appropriate with the project zones. At the conclusion of this first workshop more than 350 dots were placed within the three zones. This information, along with numerous comments written on “Post-it” notes, helped inform and guide the development of a design program for the Bear Creek Corridor. All image boards and comments can be referenced in the appendixes of this document. 14 DESIGN CONCEPTS 7SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n D E S I G N C O N C E P T S 7 SECTION Based on information gathered from the first public work- shop a series of presentation boards were produced that portrayed con- ceptual design alternatives for each project zone within the study area. These alternatives included before and after sketches of key areas as well as some detailed design ideas applicable to the entire seven and one-half mile length project area. The purpose of these design con- cepts was to solicit feedback during the second public workshop B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n D E S I G N C O N C E P T S 7 15 PROGRAM MAP North Zone • Enhanced creek area • Enhanced fish habitat • Pedestrian river crossing • Quiet overlook • Enhanced creek vegetation • Creekside dining • Wetland area with trail • Integrated sculpture • Passive sitting area • Enhanced tributary features Central Zone • Businesses fronting creek • Creekside dining • Enhanced creek vegetation • Cantilevered plaza edge • Enhanced creek area • Colorful/festive atmosphere • Accessible water features • Common plaza facing creek • Attractive bridge treatment • Integrated sculpture South Zone • Interpretive trail • Wetland area with trail • Quiet overlook • Constructed wetland • Enhanced fish habitat • Enhanced creek vegetation • Interpretive placard • Passive sitting area • Accessible water features • Enhanced tributary features BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 PUBLIC PARTICIPANT QUOTES “Eliminate blackberries and re-establish native species.” “I dream of laying on my tummy with my head over an edge close to the water. I could look into a deep pool and it was full of beautiful , natural, healthy fish - please help.” “The area is ripe for a forward-thinking, cutting-edge, park space with reclaimed wetlands, bike paths, bold vegetative planting, and useable, sculptural art that ties in with the juxtaposition of being in between two working logging mills. Think ‘Gas Works Park’ in Seattle and bring it to Medford .” “Get rid of tires and shopping carts in the creek.” “More trees for noise barrier.” “Let’s do something - tired of car lots. Runners and bicycle friendly - we have such potential - we must do something before we become one big blacktop! We need this desperately!” “Vines to help camo overpass.” “Would like integrated artwork throughout the corridor.” “Water features mask freeway noise at Hawthorne Park.” “Peaceful woods and active water.” “Native vegetation plan - use local plants and keep design simple - not a lot of concrete.” “Encourage commercial development to adopt and pay for trail beautification.” “Enhanced tributaries for fish and visual quality all over the place and integrate paths to go along them.” “Bike path smooth for rollerblading.” BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 NORTH ZONE BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 GILMAN ROAD McANDREWS ROAD ROGUE VALLEY MALL CRA TER LAKE HIGHWA Y I-5 I-5 17 15 16 14 13 12 11 NORTH ZONE BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 12 Plan of Linear Park 13 Bas Relief Wall 14 View of Railroad Park Station 15 View of “Open Area” Station 16 Overpass Detail 17 View of Promontory Station 11 View of Creekside Dining 11 12 CENTRAL ZONE BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 McANDREWS ROAD JACKSON STREET BARNETT ROAD SISKIY OU BL VD . HAWTHORNE PARK BEAR CREEK PARK 4th STREET MAIN STREET 10th STREET 12th STREET 8 7 6 3 1 4 2 5 9 10 I-5 I-5 CENTRAL ZONE ENLARGED PLAN BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 Picnic Shelter Continuous Walkway New Pedestrian Bridge Jackson Street Outdoor Education Area RIVERSIDE A VENUE McANDREWS ROAD JACKSON STREET Overlook Station Overlook Station Overlook Station Interpretive Trail/Overlook Area Section through Overlook Station Overlook Station I-5 Potential Community Open Space Potential Community Open Space Decomposed Granite Path CENTRAL ZONE ENLARGED PLAN BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 New Pedestrian Bridge Jackson Street Park Overlook Cantilevered Walk Creekside Park Creekside Park Continuous Walkway New Pedestrian Bridge Creekside Dining Pedestrian Paving at Main Street MAIN STREET 8th STREET Outdoor Education Boardwalk Hawthorne Park JACKSON STREET 4th STREET 5 2 1 4 3 7 6 8 CENTRAL ZONE CONCEPT SKETCHES BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 1 View of Creekside Dining at Main Street 2 View of Cantilevered Walkway along backs of buildings in Central Area 3 View of Main Street on Market Day BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 CENTRAL ZONE CONCEPT SKETCHES 4 View looking north under I-5 along Hawthorne Park Option A Option A Option B Option C Option D Option E Max. Height T ypical Height CENTRAL ZONE CONCEPT SKETCHES BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 5 View Walking under I-5 Option F Decorative Screen Fence Option G Option J Option I Option H “Fish Name” Option CENTRAL ZONE CONCEPT SKETCHES BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 7 View of Overlook Station Point between 4th and Jackson Street 6 View of Cantilevered Walk at Hotel 8 View of Jackson Street Park CENTRAL ZONE CONCEPT SKETCHES BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 9 “Favorite Spot” at Bear Creek Park 10 Observation Boardwalk at Bear Creek Park SOUTH ZONE BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 BARNETT ROAD New Inter c hange BELKN AP R O AD SOUTH STA GE ROAD HIGHWA Y 99 HIGHWA Y 99 18 19 20 21 22 23 I-5 I-5 I-5 SOUTH ZONE BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 22 View of Rip-Rap Station 21 View of Contemplative Area 19 View of Gabion Station 20 View of Contemplative Area Terminus 18 View of Invasive Species Station 23 Plan of Interpretive Trails IMPROVEMENTS - ACCESS BEFORE AFTER BEFORE AFTER BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 IMPROVEMENTS - EROSION AND RUNOFF BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 BEFORE BEFORE BEFORE AFTER AFTER AFTER IMPROVEMENTS - HABITAT BEFORE BEFORE AFTER AFTER BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 IMPROVEMENTS - STATIONS BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 Marker Option C Marker Option D Marker Option E Marker Option F Station Option C Station Option B Station Option A Marker Option A Marker Option B Gabion Station Option IMPROVEMENTS - EDGE CONDITION BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 Walk at Wall with Rail Walk cut into Slope with Wall Terraced Wall Cantilevered Walk Detail Before After Existing Conditions PRECEDENTS BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN 16 May 2002 Prepared for City of Medford Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. • 1475 Lawrence Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 • 303-623-3465 PROJECTS, PRIORITIES AND PARTNERS 9SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n P R O J E C T S, P R I O R I T I E S, and P A R T N E R S To achieve the goals of the City of Medford for the Bear Creek Corridor it will require the combined efforts of many people over a number of years. A variety of public and private actions will need to take place in order to implement the Action Plan. Policy, financial implementation strategies, and organizational structures will be critical. A phas- ing strategy that will allow an incremental approach to implementation will be crucial. PARTNERSHIPS Medford is fortunate to have a number of organizations and agencies committed to improving the quality of the Bear Creek Corridor. As the Bear Creek Masterplan is implemented, many existing public and private sector groups will have the responsibility for initiating and coordinating the projects outlined. Among the entities expected to play key roles are those mentioned below: City of Medford Medford Urban Renewal Agency Jackson County State of Oregon Adjacent Land Owners Adjacent Building Owners Adjacent Business Owners Major Private Partners Local Clubs and Organizations Many of the projects outlined in this report are too large to be implemented by a single entity. The demands on the limited resources of these groups will require creative strategies with regard to partnerships to implement the project. A comprehensive approach is required that initiates new ideas, improves upon existing services, and moti- vates various public and private sector groups to work together for the betterment of the entire corridor. To facilitate these partnerships and to encourage their public involve- ment, smaller projects have been identified for primary sponsorship FUNDING AND IMPLEMENTATION MECHANISMS There are many ways that the Masterplan can be achieved. The choice of mecha- nisms to be used must consider a combination of existing legislation, administrative frame- work, political realities, and funding capacities. The following are key target attainments of the Masterplan objectives. Zoning - Special ordinances will affect the long-term development patterns in terms of land use and design. Some changes in current code may be P R O J E C T S , P R I O R I T I E S and P A R T N E R S 9 SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 9 37 necessary for final implementation, ie.. setbacks and easements. Regulatory Codes - Existing sign codes and vending codes need to be mod- ified to reflect proposed improvements along the creek. Ordinances - Special ordinances that specify the desired uses and design criteria in corridor for the purpose of protecting and enhancing the special art and cultural qualities of the area should be considered. Design Guidelines/Plan Review - Mandated administrative plan review of future projects will ensure that development standards are met. Capital Improvements - Much of what will be accomplished in the future will be through the direct construction of improvements by the City. Integral to the capital improvements will be the method of funding them, which in this case may include the City’s capital improvements budget monies raised through local bonding authority. State/Federal Capital Grants - Medford may be eligible for grants, includ ing TEA-21 Funding for certain types of projects that fall within State and Federal rules. Joint Public/Private Actions - The public and private sector can participate in joint development projects under certain circumstances Private Actions - Certain portions of the Plan will be achieved in the pri- vate sector primarily from the retail, business, and art communities. Bed Tax - Funds from this special tax levied on hotels and motels could be increased to fund various capital improvements and programming activ- ities. Transfer of Development Rights - Allow transfer of development rights to occur provided the new structure contains an art or cultural space fronting the creek. Transfer of City Properties - A private developer receives a city-owned property and, in return, constructs and/or operates a business with costs equivalent to the market value of the city-owned property. P R O J E C T S , P R I O R I T I E S and P A R T N E R S 9 SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 38 Tax Abatements - The abatement of real estate taxes would reduce a buil ing’s operating costs which in turn would increase the net operating income and increase the value of the property to the owner. The resultant marginal increase in value could be used to offset the cost of developing pedestrian improvements adjacent to the creek. State of Oregon Vertical Housing Program - (See Attachment) Property Assessments Credits - The City could exempt development or renovation costs of spaces fronting the creek from value added property re-assessments. Neighborhood Stabilization - Programs should be continued to help ensure that existing downtown neighborhoods are improved. Art in Public Places - A specific set-aside for public art projects should be made for all public projects and major public open spaces adjacent to the creek. Promotional Activities - Promotional campaigns for culture and business related to the corridor should be guided by existing or newly founded asso- ciations. The promotion of the corridor should be a joint public/private effort. PHASING It is crucial that people see progress on the Masterpan become a reality immedi- ately. While many of the projects suggested require long-term implementation, there are a number of highly visible projects that can begin in the near future. Proper phasing will be critical to the success of the entire corridor. It is important to take advantage of the momentum and support coming out of the two public workshops. INITIATIVE It is obvious that the community of Medford is concerned about the current state of the Bear Creek corridor and about the economic future of its downtown. The revital- ization of the corridor, especially adjacent to downtown will be a renaissance to the City of Medford. To move forward with the implementation of the Bear Creek Masterplan, it is important that active participation from an ever broadening range of people be encour- aged. Private investment, risk taking, and the struggle to identify and pursue resources and opportunities are key to the future of Bear Creek. Medford is a city with a bright future. The revitalization of Bear Creek can be the foundation of that future. Now is the time to start building. P R O J E C T S , P R I O R I T I E S and P A R T N E R S 9 SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 39 DEFINING PILOT PROJECTS The following process of evaluating each potential project against the same criteria by assigning a value related to developability, will help prioritize all projects and identify “pilot” projects. Irreplaceable, Unique or Scarce Resource Low Has no known irreplaceable, unique, or scarce resources. Medium May have one or more irreplaceable, unique, or scarce resource. High Has confirmed irreplaceable, unique, or scarce resource(s). Natural Resource Significance Low Site has no natural resource significance. Medium Site has several significant natural resources. High Site has multiple unique natural resource significance. Recreation Resource Significance Low Site has no recreational resource significance. Medium Site has several significant recreational resources. High Site has multiple unique recreational resources Environmental Education Significance Low Site has limited or no environmental education significance. Medium Site has moderate environmental education significance. High Site has multiple unique environmental education significance. Public Access Low Not easily accessible (no paved roads or trails.) Medium Accessible from private roads or parking areas. High Accessible from existing roads or trails. Linkage Low Does not provide linkage to existing or planned parks or other protected areas. Medium Provides a linkage to planned parks or other protected areas. High Provides a dynamic in route experience & linkage to a unique destination, existing parks, or other protected areas. Urgency Low Low potential of loss of site (to development, etc.) Medium Moderate potential of loss of site. High High potential of loss of site. Partnership or Governmental Opportunity/Cooperation/Compatibility Low Low partnership or intergovernmental opportunity/cooperation/compatibility, high potential for overwhelming participation number. Medium Moderate partnership or intergovernmental opportunity/cooperation/com patibility workable group size. High High partnership or intergovernmental opportunity/cooperation/compatibility, comfortable and workable group - partnership sizes. P R O J E C T S , P R I O R I T I E S and P A R T N E R S 9 SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 40 Liabilities (The fewer the liabilities the higher the score) Low Has multiple liabilities (contamination, lien, hazard), long project duration. Medium Has minor liabilities, reasonable project duration. High Has no known liabilities, short project duration. Public Support Low Has no known public support, desire, high opposition, or need, few people benefited, no public awareness potential, value or appeal, no ownership/stewardship potential. Medium Has moderate public support, desire, some opposition, or need, few people benefited, moderate public awareness potential, little value and appeal, some ownership stewardship potential. High Has broad and balanced support from the community. Fundable Project Low Is not eligible for public funding or grants (Federal, State, Historic Society, etc.); poor cost sharing, inefficient budget. Medium Meets some criteria for funding; decent cost sharing, & effective budget. High Is excellent candidate for funding; excellent cost sharing, efficient budget. Project Plan Low Unclear goals, no feasibility or likelihood of success, high maintenance/management, poor plan development, low quality & quantity of available human resources; no regard to sustainable practices or clear understanding or macro & micro natural systems, no versatility, flexibility or diversity, no respect for natural carrying capacity, no economic draw/value. Medium Somewhat clear goals, some feasibility and likelihood of success, medium maintenance/management mediocre plan development, medium quality & quantity of available human resources; some regard to sustainable practices or clear understanding or macro & micro natural systems, some versatility, flexibility or diversity, some respect for natural carrying capacity, some economic draw/value. High Clear goals, high feasibility and likelihood of success, high maintenance/management excellent plan development, high quality & quantity of available human resources; high regard to sustainable practices and clear understanding or macro & micro natural systems, high versatility, flexibility or diversity, high respect for natural carrying capacity, high eco nomic draw/value. P R O J E C T S , P R I O R I T I E S and P A R T N E R S 9 SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 41 BEAR CREEK MASTERPLAN Project Priorities Matrix 11/14/02 PROJECT TYPE CONSTRUCTION COSTS COMMUNITY BENEFITS PROJECT PRIORITIES PRIMARY PARTNERS PROJECT REVIEW Item # BEAR CREEK POTENTIAL PROJECTS Active Passive Public/Private Recreational Environmental Informational / Aesthetic $10,000 - 25,000 $25,000 - 100,000 $100,000 - 250,000 $250,000 - 500,000 $500,000 - 1,000,000 $1,000,000 + Retail Sales Recreation/Service Neighborhood Connection Safety Aesthetic Enhancement Investment Opportunities Environmental Enhancement Priority One 2002 - 2005 Priority Two 2006 - 2009 Priority Three 2010 - 2013 Priority Four 2014 - 2017 Priority Five 2018 - 2021 City of Medford M.U.R.A. State of Oregon Medford Arts Commission Business/Property Owners Major Private Partners Local Clubs/Organizations OWEB Youth Participation City of Medford M.U.R.A. R.V.C.O.G. ODOT DEQ ODFW FEMA R.R.V. Irrigation Dist. DSL NIMS Army Corps of Engineers BC Watershed Council Noah Fisheries Medford Irrigation Dist. NORTH ZONE N1 RV Mall Restaurant zz zzzzz z z z zN1 N2 RV Mall Westside Path zzzz z z zzz zz z zzz z zzzN2 N3 RV Mall Pedestrian Bridge z z zzz z z zzz z zzN3 N4 Wall Sculpture @ North Interchange z z zzz N4 N5 RR Park Station/Wetland z z z z z z z zzzz z zz zzzzzzzN5 N6 North Interchange/Pedestrian Overpass z z z zz z z zz zz z N6 N7 Medco Station/Overlook zzz zzz z zz zN7 N8 North Station/Overlook #1 N8 N9 North Station/Overlook #2 z z N9 N10 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #1 z z zz z zz z zz zzzzzzzN10 N11 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #2 z z z z z zz z zz zzzzzzzN11 N12 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #3 z z z z z zz z zz zzzzzzzN12 N13 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #4 z z z z z zz z zz zzzzzzzN13 N14 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #5 z z z z z zz z zz zzzzzzzN14 N15 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #6 z z z zz zz z zz zzzzzzzN15 N16 McAndrews Bridge Enhancement z z z zzzz z zz z z zN16 N17 I-5 Overpass Enhancement zz z zzzzz z zN18 CENTRAL ZONE C1 9th Street Pedestrian Bridge z zzz z zzzz zzz zz zzz zz zzzC1 C2 Westside Catilevered Walkway z zzz zzzzz zzz zz zzz zz zzz zC2 C3 Jackson Street Pedestrian Bridge z zzzz z zzz z zz zzz zz zzz zC3 C4 Market Plaza z z zzz zz z zz zzzz zz zzz zC4 C5 Main Street Pedestrian Paving z z z z z z z zz zzzz zz C5 C6 Jackson Street Outdoor Education Park z zz z z zz zzz zzzzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzC6 C7 I-5 Visual/Sound Enhancement z z z z z zzzz zz zzzzzzzzC7 C8 Outdoor Education Boardwalk/Maze z zz z z z z zzz zzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzC8 C9 Irrigation Station Visual Enhancement zzz z z z zzz zzz zz zzzzzzzzzzC9 C10 Creekside Park zz zz z zz z zz z zz zzz zz zzzC10 C11 Senior Center Park zzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzC11 C12 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #1 z z zz zz zz zz zz zzzzzzzC12 C13 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #2 z z z z zz zz zz zz zzzzzzzC13 C14 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #3 z z z z zz zz zz zz zzzzzzzC14 C15 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #4 z z z z zz zz zz zz zzzzzzzC15 C16 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #5 z z z zzz zz zz zz zzzzzzzC16 C17 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #6 z z z zzz zz zz zz zzzzzzzC17 C18 Bear Creek Park Station/Overlook #1 zzz zzzzzzzzzzC18 C19 Bear Creek Park Station/Overlook #2 C19 C20 Bear Creek Park Station/Overlook #3 C20 C21 12th Street Station/Overlook z zzz z z z zz zzz z z zC21 C22 8th Street Station/Overlook z zzz z zz zz zzz zz z zC22 C23 4th Street Station/Overlook z zz z z zz zz zzz zz zzz zC23 C24 North Jackson Station/Overlook #1 z zzz z z z zz z zz zz zC24 C25 McAndrews Interpretive Trail zz zzz z zz z z zz zzz zzz zzC25 C26 McAndrews Picnic Shelter zzzz zzz zz zz zz zz zzC26 C27 McAndrews Station/Overlook #1 zz zzzzzC27 C28 Westside Trail z z z z z z zz z z zz zzz zC28 C29 McAndrews Station/Overlook #2 zz z zzzzzzzzz zC29 C30 North Jackson Station/Overlook #2 zC30 C31 Central Area Public Art Plan zz z z zz zzzz zzz zzC31 C32 Jackson St. Bridge Enhancement zz z zzzzzzzC32 C33 4th Street Bridge Enchancement zC33 C34 Main Street Bridge Enhancement z z z z zz zz zz zz zC34 C35 8th Street Bridge Enhancement zC35 C36 Hawthorne Park Duck Pond z zz z z z z z zz zz zz z zzzC36 C37 Bear Creek Pedestrian Bridge z z zzz z zz z zz zzz zC37 SOUTH ZONE S1 Natural Area at South Sports Park z zz z z zz z zz zz zzz zzzzzS1 S2 South Interpretive Trail zz zz z z zz z z z zz z zzzS2 S3 South Stage Station/Overlook z zzz z zz z z z zz zS3 S4 Elbow Station/Overlook z zzz z zz z z z zz zS4 S5 Middle Station/Overlook z zzz z zz z z z zz zS5 S6 Interchange Station/Overlook z zzz z zz z z z zz zS6 S7 South Interchange Project zz zzzz zzzzzzzS7 S8 Barnett Station/Overlook z zzz z z z z z z zz zS8 S9 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #1 z z zz z zz z zz zzzzzzzS9 S10 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #2 z z zz z zz z zz zzzzzzzS10 S11 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #3 z z z z z zz z zz zzzzzzzS11 S12 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #4 z z z z z zz z zz zzzzzzzS12 S13 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #5 z z z z z zz z zz zzzzzzzS13 S14 Creek/Habitat Enhancement Area #6 z z z zz zz z zz zzzzzzzS14 S15 I-5 Bridge Enhancement z z z z z zz z z zzzz zS15 S16 Barnett Bridge Enhancement z zzz zzzzz zS16 Bear Creek Masterplan DSW 11-14-02 Cost by Priority Year PRIORITY AND PROJECT ESTIMATED PROJECT COSTS Priority One 2002-2005 N2 $250,000.00 N3 $500,000.00 N10 $25,000.00 C1 $500,000.00 C2 $2,500,000.00 C6 $500,000.00 C12 $25,000.00 C22 $25,000.00 C23 $50,000.00 C31 $25,000.00 C34 $250,000.00 S1 $100,000.00 S2 $50,000.00 S3 $25,000.00 S4 $25,000.00 S5 $25,000.00 S6 $25,000.00 S9 $25,000.00 S10 $25,000.00 Priority One Total = $4,950,000.00 Priority Two 2006-2009 N1 $1,000,000.00 N11 $25,000.00 C3 $500,000.00 C4 $2,500,000.00 C5 $250,000.00 C7 $100,000.00 C9 $25,000.00 C13 $25,000.00 C18 $25,000.00 C19 $25,000.00 C20 $25,000.00 C21 $25,000.00 C26 $100,000.00 C27 $25,000.00 C28 $500,000.00 C37 $500,000.00 S7 $250,000.00 S8 $25,000.00 S11 $25,000.00 S16 $100,000.00 Priority One Total = $6,050,000.00 Priority Three 2010-2013 N5 $100,000.00 N6 $250,000.00 N7 $25,000.00 N8 $25,000.00 N9 $25,000.00 N12 $25,000.00 C8 $250,000.00 C10 $250,000.00 C11 $100,000.00 C14 $25,000.00 C24 $25,000.00 C25 $250,000.00 C29 $25,000.00 C30 $25,000.00 S12 $25,000.00 S15 $100,000.00 Priority One Total = $1,525,000.00 Priority Four 2014-2017 N4 $100,000.00 N13 $25,000.00 N14 $25,000.00 C15 $25,000.00 C32 $100,000.00 C33 $100,000.00 C35 $100,000.00 C36 $100,000.00 S13 $25,000.00 Priority One Total = $600,000.00 Priority Five 2018-2021 N15 $25,000.00 N16 $100,000.00 N17 $100,000.00 C16 $25,000.00 C17 $25,000.00 S14 $25,000.00 Priority One Total = $300,000.00 Total Estimated Cost = $13,425,000.00 NEXT STEPS 10SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n 10 SECTION B e a r C r e e k M a s t e r p l a n - M e d f o r d , O r e g o n NEXT STEPS Adoption z The Bear Creek Master Plan adopted by City Council as a part of the City Comprehensive Plan. Planning and Design Guidelines z Prepare detailed Bear Creek Planning and Design Guidelines for private and public improvements for the North, Central and South reaches. z Prepare Bear Creek site design, landscape architectural, architectural, engineering, wildlife, riparian, ecological and recreational standards and criterion. z Prepare and amend City zoning and creekfront planning, density, height, bulk and public safety stan dards for Bear Creek. z Prepare planning and design review and approval standards and criterion for future Bear Creek proj ects. z Prepare Bear Creek planning and design goals, objectives and policies for future improvements. z Determine Bear Creek compliance and regulatory standards for ADA, water quality, flood, access, crossings, flow, and other statutory requirements. Technical Review Committee z Using the Bear Creek Master Plan and Bear Creek Planning and Design Guidelines organize a Technical Design Review Committee. z Determine a comprehensive Committee of technical expertise from all appropriate public, private and non-profit agencies and organizations. z Establish consistent public information and outreach for preliminary and final Bear Creek projects. z Review all proposed Bear Creek projects for compliance with City, regional, state and Federal requirements. z Archive all approved Bear Creek improvement projects and revise and update applicable standards as required. z Implement a Bear Creek monitoring and measurement program that gauges public use, water quality, wildlife enhancement and investment along Bear Creek. Funding and Finance Committee z Prepare a five (5) year Bear Creek capital improvements program. z Prepare a comprehensive funding and finance campaign for Bear Creek projects using public, private and non-profit sources. z Prepare a Bear Creek project selection process that encourages broad and multiple financial support, volunteerism and donation for all Bear Creek projects. z Promote and seek appropriate creekfront development that generates local revenue and job creation. z Establish financial and development incentives for creekside development that supports and advances the goals and objectives of the City and Bear Creek. 10 N E X T S T E P S 42 Next Steps PROPOSED SCHEDULE Prepared for the Medford Urban Renewal Agency Prepared by Design Studios West, Inc. January 2003 BEAR CREEK MASTER PLAN A. Adoption z The Bear Creek Master Plan adopted by City Council as a part of the City Comprehensive Plan B. Planning and Design Guidelines z Prepare detailed Bear Creek Planning and Design Guidelines for private and public improvements for the North, Central and South reaches. z Prepare Bear Creek site design, landscape architectrual, architectrual, engineering, wildlife, riparian, ecological and recreational standards and criterion. z Prepare and amend City zoning and creekfront planning, density, height, bulk and public safety standards for Bear Creek. z Prepare planning and design review and approval standards and criterion for future Bear Creek projects. z Prepare Bear Creek planning and design goals, objectives and policies for future improvements. z Determine Bear Creek compliance and regulatory standards for ADA, water quality, flood, access, crossings, flow, and other statutory requirements. C. Technical Review Committee z Using the Bear Creek Master Plan and Bear Creek Planning and Design Guidelines, organize a Technical Design Review Committee. z Determine a comprehensive Committee of technical expertise from all appropriate public, private and non-profit agencies and organizations. z Establish consistent public information and outreach for preliminary and final Bear Creek projects. z Review all proposed Bear Creek projects for compliance with City, regional, state and Federal requirements. z Archive all approved Bear Creek improvement projects and revise and update applicable standards as required. z Implement a Bear Creek monitoring and measurement program that gauges public use, water quality, wildlife enhancement and investment along Bear Creek. D. Funding and Finance Committee z Prepare a five (5) year Bear Creek capital improvements program. z Prepare a comprehensive funding and finance campaign for Bear Creek projects using public, private and non-profit sources. z Prepare a Bear Creek project selection process that encourages broad and multiple financial support, volunteerism and donation for all Bear Creek projects. z Promote and seek appropriate creekfront development that generates local revenue and job creation. z Establish financial and development incentives for creekside development that supports and advances the goals and objectives of the City and Bear Creek. January February March April May June