Exploring Warner. A Vision For Warner Park Manhattan, KS

Exploring Warner A Vision For Warner Park Manhattan, KS Ashley Akers & Nick Ferrara Professors Beamish & Canfield Kansas State University Landscape Architecture and Regional & Community Planning LAR 320 2018 Landscape Architecture Site Design Studio II

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INTRODUCTION April 2018 This five-week project was undertaken as part of the second-year LAR 320 Landscape Architecture Site Design studio at Kansas State University. Directed by Professors Anne Beamish and Jessica Canfield, the studio s eighteen students worked in pairs to create nine unique park design proposals. The design proposals were informed by findings from the 2017 Warner Memorial Park Master Plan Neighborhood Survey; a meeting with stakeholders on February 21; on-site observations; and, a thorough site analysis. The intention of this collaborative student project was to envision possibilities for a reinvigorated Warner Park and to offer a range of ideas for the community to consider. The landscape architecture students were directed to develop solutions that took into account the community s vision, addressed the existing site s physical opportunities and constraints, and provided an inviting destination for all ages. In particular students sought to create a range of opportunities for meeting, gathering, sitting, walking, exercising, conversing, people-watching, playing, celebrating, relaxing, and eating. Each of the student team proposals reflects different design ideas for the park s open meadow areas, disc golf course, ravine, community gathering areas, pathways, vegetation, and site furnishings. We would like to thank the City of Manhattan for sponsorship of this project and especially Wyatt Thompson and Alfonso Leyva for their assistance and support. LAR 320 Students Ashley Akers Hannah Brown Seth Campbell Jessie Carmichael Paden Chesney-Mateos Madelyn Cole Nicholas Ferrara Mikala Fitzgerald Erich Herbel Kastasya Jackson Julia Kappelman Rainie Madsen Samantha Myers Grant Pasowicz James Ryan August Titus Haley Weinberg Lena Wells Sincerely, Professors Beamish & Canfield 3

Issues To Address Trails Proposed Location For New Trails The new proposed trail expansion will connect the park as a whole together through one large loop trail. It is essential to look at hydrology, accessibility and wildlife interference when implementing the new trail expansion. Hydrology It is important to understand the hydrology and drainage patterns of the site before implementing new trails to avoid accelerated erosion or washouts from runoff. If proposing a trail through a bank, a bridge must be in place to allow for accessibility across the bank. Accessibility Allowing access throughout the site to those who could otherwise not access it is a priority when creating the new trail expansion. Bridges over stream banks, ground plane materiality selection, trail wideness and connectivity are all aspects involved in creating an accessible trail system. Wildlife Preexisting wildlife within the site should not be disturbed when implementing the new trail expansion. Wildlife at the park are found predominantly within the heavily wooded areas of the site. This means the trails being expanded through the ravine should be designed and implemented carefully with the preexisting and future wildlife in mind. Proposed Sites to Avoid For New Trails Creating pathways through the open tallgrass fields could potentially impede existing cross country courses or cause too much of the area to be open losing the effect of the natural tallgrass. Disc Golf Proposed Location for Disc Golf Expansion The proposed expansion would span across the gully and reach into the open space in the center of the park. It would then turn to reach back to the existing stretch of space for the course. These baskets would need to be removable and taken down for Cross Country events that are held at the park. Topography for Disc Golf Expansion Topographically, the park may need adjustments in order to accommodate the expansion. The new holes may prove to be a challenge while crossing the gully. Circulation for Disc Golf Expansion New trails would be required to expand the course. They would most likely require some sort of material like gravel or mulch to establish a pathway within the gully and keep grass and woody plants from overtaking the paths. Wayfinding signage may also be required along the new path. Erosion and Waterways Erosion and stream water could cause potential damage both existing and proposed pathways leading into and in the gully. Minimal land retention may be necessary to prevent soil and sediments from slipping out of the drainage basin. This could also potentially mean the addition of bridges so users can safely cross the creek bed. Restrooms Proposed Areas for Permanent Restroom A permanent restroom structure would be a proven asset to the park. It would bring convenience to the park for frequent users and for those who utilize the park for exercise and enjoyment. This would also service the local high school for their cross country events and eliminate the need to import portable units. Keeping the structures near entrances or service roads for maintenance should be considered. This would also make bringing water and sewer utilities to the structure(s) easy and cost effective. Creating these structures would also require new pathways. Proposed Areas in need of Environmental Restoration Currently there are two dominant invasive species at Warner Park. Juniperus virginiana and Lonicera maackii are found in almost every area of the park. Restoring native trees and understory species in the designated area over a planned period of time would help meet ecological concerns and provide potential for added beauty to be integrated into the park. Gradually thinning the amount of invasive species in this area would promote native species growth. 4

Park Usage Entrance Data Manhattan Parks and Rec surveyed the amount of foot traffic through various entrances using six Eco counter Pyro boxes. The survey took place at Warner Park between September 11-24, 2017. There were three scheduled events during this survey: disc golf, cross country meet and cross country practice that could possibly produce higher entrance rates into the park. 17% User Survey 4% 27% 4% 3% 19% 17% 3% 6% Trails Dog Walks Open Space Scenic Cross Country Disc Golf Location Natural Peaceful Figure 3 information from Manhattan Parks and Rec Warner Park Usage Survey (2017), figure by authors (2018). The figure above shows the percentages of preferred attributes from park users. This information was adapted from a survey conducted by Manhattan Parks and Rec services in 2017. Figure 1 from Manhattan Parks and Rec Warner Park Usage Survey (2017). The figure above shows the average number of people who entered the park daily over the course of a week. Figure 2 from Manhattan Parks and Rec Warner Park Usage Survey (2017). The figure above compares the average number of people who entered the park during the week and the average number of people who entered the park over the weekend. Figure 4 from Manhattan Parks and Rec Warner Park Usage Survey (2017). The figure above shows the average number of people who entered the park through the disc golf entrance. This does not represent the amount of people who played disc golf, but it gives a better understanding of who uses Scout s Trail and the importance of maintaining the trail. 5

Master Plan Goals & Objectives Vision Restroom A At East Scout s Trail Parking Lot Improvement Warner Park is local gathering space where a diversity of users from both the surrounding neighborhoods and the city of Manhattan come and gather to enjoy a sense of nature and open environment. The proposed design links both sides of the park and creates opportunities for those who like to explore, recreate, relax, and observe. Amenities will include trails, outdoor amphitheater, disc golf 9-hole expansion, dog park, and restrooms. Overall the design focuses on giving the community a destination and place to explore. Dog Park Disc Golf Expansion Big 12 Cross Country Course Outdoor Amphitheater Restroom B Main Features Disc Golf 9-Hole Expansion to 18-Holes New course design with an additional nine holes will give the disc golf community a larger course. Bringing the new course into the ravine will provide players with unique landscape. Restroom C At South West Parking Lot Dog Park The addition of a dog park in will provide a play space for dogs and owners to socialize in a semienclosed space. Trails Maintenance and improvements along Scouts Trail would provide better surface and a greater width trail to allow visitors to comfortably walk. Outdoor Amphitheater An outdoor amphitheater would provide a space for community members, local groups and park users to gather. Figure 5 modified from Google Earth Pro (2018) Warner Park Design Proposal Restrooms Restrooms into Warner Park would provide an added level of comfort and allows park users to stay longer. Legend Warner Park Target Figure 6 modified from Google Earth Pro (2018) City Context 6 S Seth Childs Road Town West Strip Mall Fort Riley Blvd. 3. 4. 2. Home Depot 4. 3. 1. 2. 1. 4. 8. 5. 7. Figure 7 modified from Google Earth Pro (2018) Site Analysis 6. 3. 7. 1. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Parking - ideal locations for restrooms Open meadow Areas with invasive species Optimal areas for new park amenities and improvements Existing disc golf course Ravine with existing drainage patterns Existing pavilion

Proposed NE Restroom NE Parking Retention Pond Proposed Dog Park Proposed Amphitheater LEGEND Existing East Shelter Existing Trails Disc Golf Proposed Trails Proposed Restroom Disc Golf Trail Proposed SW Restroom Cross Country Trails SW Parking Disc Golf Holes Restroom Structure Parking Lot Figure 8 modified from Google Earth Pro (2018) Pavillion Structure Master Plan The Warner Park Master Plan visualizes the proposed elements that could enhance the overall functionality and pleasure of the park. This plan is not meant to fundamentally change the park, rather it is meant to provide more amenities for the community to explore the rich environment Warner has to offer. 0 40 80 160 Existing Bridge Proposed Bridge 7

Disc Golf Disc Golf Features - Variety of course difficulty. 9-holes added to existing course. Shade within the ravine to escape heat in summer. Expansion to 18 basket course for tournament eligibility Diversity of landscape throughout the course to provide players with the full sense of the park. Additional infrastructure to connect the ravine and baskets. Sign at Ravine Trail Head New signage is proposed for the course expansion into the ravine to provide visitor awareness. Ravine Course Terrain - Uphill Shot Disc Golf Pathways Plan 8 Disc Golf Expansion into Ravine Bridges will link the disc golf course across the ravine to give a variety to the varying shots. Section - Course In Ravine

Proposed Disc Golf 18-Hole Expansion Plan The newly proposed disc golf course is design to allow players to experience the full scope of the park while playing disc golf. This newly proposed course allow golfers to venture through the diverse landscape that exists at Warner. 0 40 80 9

Dog Park Large Dog Park Dog Park Entrance The entry corridor is kept open for multiple dogs and owners to freely pass one another without feeling overwhelmed. A wide gate located in the middle of the park serves as an area for dogs to socialize before entering the park so they can become familiar with one another. Small Dog Park Dog Park Amenities Drinking Fountain Providing water to both dogs and their owners is essential for dog safety and owner comfort. Avoiding standing water is key for public safety and health to prevent diseases spreading through mosquitoes and other bacteria. Dog Waste Receptacle Pet waste management is essential to keep parks clean of dog feces. The dog park allows for easier access to dog waste Receptacle and can promote a cleaner dog walking culture. 10 Small and Large Dog Park Separating large and small dogs provides a safe space for small dogs and adequate comfort levels to small or shy dogs that get timid around bigger / more active dogs. It is recommended for dogs less than thirty-five pounds to have their own play space away from dogs over thirty-five pounds. Seating Group seating is recommended for dog parks to allow socialization between dog owners and visitors. Seating also provides comfort and rest to owners while giving dogs their freedom from their leash. Signage

Open entrance from the park into the gated parks. Water fountain Waste receptacle Dog exercise equipment Gate entrance for large and small dog sections. Small dog park (below 35 lbs) Large dog park (above 35 lbs) Waste receptacle Water fountain Recommended Dog Park Rules Owners are legally responsible for their dogs and any injuries caused by them. The city is not responsible for dogs at this park in any way. Puppies and dogs must be properly licensed, inoculated and healthy to use the park. Animals must wear a collar and ID tags at all times. Owner must clean up after their dogs. Dogs showing aggression towards people or other animals must be removed from the park. Animals exhibiting a history of aggressive behavior will not be permitted. Puppies using the park must be at least four months old. Owners must not leave their dogs unattended or out of site. Children under sixteen are not permitted in the park without adult supervision. Dogs in heat are not allowed inside the park. No glass, sharp objects or weapons are permitted inside the park. Owners must carry a leash at all times. Dog Park Features - Water fountains for dog owners and dogs. Plenty of space for dogs to run. Shaded areas to escape the summer heat. Play equipment for dogs. Wide corridor for entry and socialization. Large and small dog areas. Waste receptacles for easier clean up. Dog exercise equipment Dog Park Plan 0 40 80 11

Outdoor Amphitheater Bioswale Amphitheater Proposed drainage lines Runoff water 1130 Outdoor Amphitheater The new path wraps around the back side of the amphitheater preventing interruptions at the stage. Outdoor Amphitheater Precedents Drainage Plan 1140 The amphitheater works to direct the drainage down into the existing ditch off of Warner Park Rd. Running through the middle of the site. Amphitheater Uses: Awards ceremonies for events such as cross country or disc golf. Gathering space for the community. Area for large picnics. Space to sketch or do homework. Space to reflect and rest from the bustle of the city. 1130 Figure 9 Figure 10 Figure 11 Manassas Park Elementary School This precedent from Manassas Park Elementary School, doubles as a bioswale to collect runoff water. Quad Initiative - Columbia College The Quad Initiative at Columbia College provides an outdoor gathering space for students to have class. Linden Square - Confluence Linden Square done by the firm Confluence provides a small gathering space for a variety of events such as concerts and fairs. 12

Seating area for spectators Waste receptacle Proposed White Oak Trees Blackgum Trees Stage area for concerts, gatherings for award ceremonies Outdoor Amphitheater Plan The circulation of the amphitheater allows for entrance around the back of the seating to avoid interference with the front of the amphitheater upon entrance. 0 40 80 160 13

Trails Trail Features Scout s Trail Seating throughout Improvement of trail materials Three restrooms throughout site for visitor comfort. New drainage system to combat erosion. Reintroduction of native grasses and shrubs to diversify the ecosystem and add aesthetic value. Wider trail space for added comfort. Scout s Trail - Tallgrass Native vegetation Mulched surface course Compacted aggregate base course 10 Trail 14 Scout s Trail - Section & Drainage Proposal Compacted sub-grade Trails Plan Existing Trails Proposed XC Trails Proposed Trails

Cross Country Big 12 Course Regulations Overview Starting Area- Starting line must accommodate no more than one box for each participating institution with a 3.5 meter minimum box width. The course must gradually taper to a minimum of five meters wide at a point no earlier than the 400 meter mark. The starting straightaway must be a minimum of 200 meters without turns or bends. The total of all turns or bends in the first 400 meters must not exceed 30 degrees. The total of all turns or bends in the first 600 meters must not exceed 90 degrees. Cross Country Meet Course Width- The course must be a minimum of five meters wide at all points before the 2.5 mile mark. Surface and Footing- Course must avoid the following hazards within the running areas: 1. Hidden holes 2. Running alongside pitches or side hills 3. Low branches on trees and exposed roots 4. Right angle turns 5. Deep ditches and ruts 6. Confusing turns or markings 7. Possible deep water areas should it rain 8. Rocks and boulders 9. Hills too steep to climb in inclement weather 10. Deep sand or loose gravel Surface must be spike friendly such as grass, dirt, or playground-grade mulch. Course should avoid crossing of impermissible surfaces. Courses may not include any loops that might reasonably cause lapping of studentathletes and must not include any intersections that might reasonably cause studentathletes paths to cross. Finish Line- The finish line must be a straightaway with no turns or bends for a minimum of the final 75 meters. There must be no more than a total of 45 degrees (directionally) of turns in the final 200 meters. Information from Big 12 Cross Country Coaches Minutes (Feb. 13, 2018) Parking Diagram for Cross Country Events Overflow Parking 15

Park Utilities Plan Existing Water Line Water Line Gas Utility Gas Utility Water Line Water Line Gas Line Water Line Gas Line Gas Utility Gas Line Existing Water Line Image 8 modified from Google Earth Pro (2018) Plan of Utilities Proposal 16 SW Restrooms Gas Utility Dog park Utilities East Restroom SW Restroom Utilities

Native Vegetation Reintroduction Native Vegetation Reintroduction Existing Vegetation Percentage Existing Vegetation Reintroducing a wider variety of native vegetation works to diversify the ecosystem at Warner. Currently the park is overrun with invasive species such as Lonicera maackii (honeysuckle) and Juniperus virginiana (eastern red cedar). Native wildflowers will increase the insect population such as the butterflies at Warner and can be used as an educational and aesthetic tool at the park. Honeysuckle Eastern Red Cedar Tallgrass White Pine Information compiled by authors after site visits, authors (2018). Chinkapin Oak Lacebark Elm Bur Oak Implementation of native plant species and removal of harmful plant species will help to address the ecological concerns of the prairies and forests. Additionally, this would create an opportunity to provide park users with added beauty along trails through the seasonal value of the proposed plants. Native Wild Flowers Tallgrass Common Witchazel White Oak Attracts various insect poplations. Ornamental value through the seasonal flowers. Wide variety of colors, sizes and forms. Diversifies the prairie landscape. (Keane 2017) Integral part of the tallgrass prairie. Strengthens the soils of the area by embedding deep roots. Adds an aesthetic to the open space of the park. (Keane 2017) Zone : 4-8 Native to prairie landscape Ornamental Value: flowers in the spring; golden yellow in the fall Available in tree or shrub form Dirr (1998) Zone : 3-9 Native to prairie landscape Good shade tree for open spaces. Durable and long lived. Dirr (1998) Figure 12 Native Vegetation Reintroduction Zones 17

Parking Lots & Road SW Parking Lot East Parking Lot Proposed Restrooms Scout s Trail Existing Trail Proposed Restrooms Shuss Rd 18 Coarse aggregate surface course Compacted aggregate base course Section of SW Parking Lot The main road through the park will be open at specific times, but will remained closed for normal park hours to prevent misuse of the parks amenities. The parking lots will be resurfaced with 3/4 base gravel with finer surface layer of gravel on top. Compacted sub-grade Warner Park Rd Plan of SW Parking Lot Plan of East Parking Lot

Phasing Strategy Phase 1: Phase 1: Scouts Trail Improvements, Disc Golf Expansion, Dog Park, and Restrooms Clear pathways and corridors for disc golf Construct restrooms and move utilities Construct fence, add amenities, and move utilities for dog park Clear out invasive along pathways and integrate native species Phase 2: Trails, Big 12, and Amphitheater Improve remaining trails Construct amphitheater and plant Oak trees Phase 3: Reintroduction of Native Plant Species Dog Park The dog park for large and small dogs utilizes an open preexisting space at Warner that is not currently being utilized. Installment of fencing, water fountains, benches, and dog exercise equipment would be required to have a successful dog park. Scout s Trail Addition of much and other sustainable trail material would be beneficial for ease and aesthetics of the trail experience. Clearing of invasive encroaching within the pathways would be required to maintain the pathway. Disc Golf Expanding the disc golf course into the ravine requires small bridges to be installed so players can safely cross the ravine for varying holes. Clearing of excess invasive would be beneficial so the course is not fully engulfed with Lonicera maackii (honeysuckle). Restrooms With the introduction of restrooms to the park it allows park goers to comfortably use the restroom and have a longer park experience that they otherwise could not have. Water and sewer lines would have to be moved as well as the building of the restroom structures. Phase 2: Phase 3: Big 12 The introduction of the Big 12 cross country tournament at Warner will increase revenue to the city of Manhattan during meet weekend. Mowing, marking of the course and event staff would be required for this to happen, but it will not have a permanent or damaging effects on the park as it is only held once a year. Amphitheater An outdoor amphitheater will allow small outdoor gatherings and a space for award ceremonies. The planting of white oak and blackgum trees, seating installment and stone stage installment are required for the implementation of the amphitheater. Reintroduction of Native Plant Species A majority of the park is currently choked out by invasive woody plant species. The reintroduction of native plant species will provide a more diverse ecosystem and improve the plan quality at the park as well as add an aesthetic value to the park. 19

Existing Conditions Vegetation Patterns/Maintenance at Warner Park Frequently Mowed/Maintained Tallgrass (Short) Common Vegetation- Big bluestem and other native forbs Common Wildlife- Birds, rabbits, field mice, snakes, dogs and humans Infrequently Mowed/Maintained Tallgrass (Tall) Common Vegetation- big bluestem and other native forbs Common Wildlife- Birds, rabbits, field mice, snakes Drainage Pond Common Vegetation- Cattails Common Wildlife- None Predominantly Woody Area Common Vegetation- Majority: Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana), Amur Honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii) Minority- White Pine (Pinus strobus) Common Wildlife- Squirrels, birds, rabbits Figure 13 The map above shows the different types of vegetation groups that make up Warner Park. The authors condensed down the varying vegetation patterns into four categories. Honeysuckle Hardiness Zone - Manhattan Hardiness Zone: 6a Average Extreme Low Temperature:-10 to -5 degrees Fahrenheit. Figure 14 20 Juniper White Pine Tallgrass Flint HillsWarner Park is located within the Flint Hills of Kansas. Characteristics of the Flint Hills are: Largest continuous tallgrass prairie in the world. Gentle rolling hills. Exposed limestone and shale creating a rocky soil. Diverse ecosystems within the tallgrass prairies.

Site Inventory Hydrology Figure 15 Figure 16 LEGEND Direction of Drainage Creeks The figure above shows the hydrology patterns throughout the site. The two creeks that run through the site along with the retention pond are the main collectors of water runoff throughout the site. The figure above shows the direct drainage into the ravine. This drainage could potentially effect the disc golf course or the dog park in instances of heavy rain. Drainage Pond Drainage Within Site Drainage Pond The drainage pond located on the northwest side of the park collects the excess water runoff of the site and surrounding area. West Creek Drainage paths similar to the one in the photo to the left are commonly found throughout the site. Pictured left is a section of the west creek located along the Eight Week Trail. The west creek collects the excess runoff from the hillslopes and houses that are adjacent to the west side of the creek. 21

Conclusion Conclusion Through this analysis, Warner Park can be adapted to meet new needs and community goals while maintaining its natural and enclosed environment. Improving the parks trails, implementing natural play structures, expanding its disc golf course, including new amenities, and restoring natives plant species will contribute to the long term investment that the park can provide for the people in the surrounding neighborhoods and throughout the greater Manhattan area. Overall, Warner Park will change for the better in a growing community. As families come and grow, users can establish relationships with other users and the park itself. Improving accessibility for a population of different age, race, gender, and social class can promote community dialogue. Creating spaces for all types of users can bring families and individuals to this urban oasis developing their lives and the life of Warner Park. 22

References Figure 1-4 -Manhattan Parks and Rec Warner Park Usage Survey (2017) - Flint Hills Metropolitan Planning Organization. Usage Study Sept. 2017 Warner Park. Manhattan Pubic Works, September 2017, 1-14. Figure 5-8 - Google Earth Pro (2018) - Warner Park 39 10 22.18 N and 96 36 47.21 W. Google Earth. August 12, 2014. March 2018. Figure 9 - ASLA (2011) - Manassas Park Elementary School Landscape Manassas Park, VA. ASLA 2011 Professional Awards Manassas Park Elementary School. 2011. Accessed April 09, 2018. https://www.asla.org/2011awards/456.html. Figure 10 - Columbia College (2018) - Quad Architectural Renderings. Architectural Renderings of the Columbia College Quad Initiative: Columbia College. Accessed April 07, 2018. https://www.ccis.edu/about/quad/renderings.aspx. Figure 11 - Confluence (2017) - Confluence. Linden Square at Gladstone Village Center. Confluence Landscape Architecture & Urban Design. 2017. Accessed March 28, 2018. http://www.thinkconfluence.com/work/parks-open-space/liden-square-at-gladstone-village-center/. Figure 12-13 - Google Earth Pro (2018) - Warner Park 39 10 22.18 N and 96 36 47.21 W. Google Earth. August 12, 2014. March 2018. Figure 14 - USDA (2018) - United States Department of Agriculture. USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/phzmweb/#. Figure 15-16 - Google Earth Pro (2018) - Warner Park 39 10 22.18 N and 96 36 47.21 W. Google Earth. August 12, 2014. March 2018. All other images by: Authors (2018) - Akers, Ashley. Ferrara, Nick. (2018). Kansas State University. LAR 320 Site Design Studio. Dirr (1998) - Dirr, Michael A. Dirrs Hardy Trees and Shrubs: An Illustrated Encyclopedia. Portland, OR: Timber Press, 1998. Keane (2017) - Keane, Timothy. (2017). Kansas State University. LAR 420 Natural Systems and Site Analysis. 23