sr-061411-8aCity Council Meeting: June 14, 2011
Agenda Item: ~-~
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Martin Pastucha, Director of Public Works
Barbara Stinchfield, Director of Community & Cultural Services
Subject: Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Review and provide input on the design development plans for Palisades Garden
Walk & Town Square.
2. Approve the recommended design direction.
3. Direct. staff to move forward with construction documents, returning to regulatory
commissions for additional refinements of specific elements as indicated in the
staff report.
Executive Summary
The design development phase for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square by James
Corner Field Operations is complete. .The design development plans have been
presented to the community, and the Recreation & Parks and Planning Commissions
and had regulatory reviews by the Landmarks Commission (for Town Square only) and
the Architectural Review Board (for architectural elements within Palisades Garden
Walk). A summary of the Commissioners' and Board's comments and formal actions
are included in this report. Staff is now requesting that Council review the proposed
design development plans (Attachment A) and provide feedback for incorporation in
construction documents, with the understanding that details for certain elements
requested- by the Architectural Review Board and Landmarks Commission will return to
these regulatory agencies for approval prior to incorporation into the construction
documents.
Background
On April 13, 2010, Council awarded a design contract to James Corner Field Operations
(JCFO) to design the park and town square described in the 1993 (updated on June 28,
2005) Civic Center Specific Plan (CCSP). The CCSP EIR adequately reviewed the
project in compliance with CEQA and no additional review is required for the Town
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Square and Palisades Garden Walk. A key factor in the selection of JCFO was its
creative design approach and commitment to engaging the public in the planning and
design of public open spaces.
On June 22, 2010, Council approved a community engagement strategy to ensure that
the park designs reflect the diverse interests and perspectives of the Santa Monica
community. Amulti-pronged strategy using electronic communication, stakeholder
group liaisons, joint meetings of the Recreation & Parks Commission and the Planning
Commission, visits to other advisory groups and regulatory commissions at key
intervals, and multiple community workshops has been employed as further articulated
below. This strategy was approved by Council and is included in this staff report as
Attachment B. It has been fully implemented throughout the design process.
A project website (http://www.smciviccenterparks.com) was launched to provide- an
online platform for information sharing between the project team and the community.
The website contains project updates and news; .project team and contact information, a
photo gallery, online surveys, reports related to the project, and information on the
overall CCSP.
Discussion
The overarching design concept for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square reflects
both the vision and the language of the CCSP. _The CCSP envisioned that a "necklace
of linked open spaces" would be provided within the Civic Center to give structure and
identity to the area. The CCSP conceived of Palisades Garden Walk as "interpreting
landscape characteristics of southern California coastal bluffs and arroyos, contrasting
open lawns and organized pedestrian pathways," with public art, horticulture and a
creative contouring of landform. It was envisioned to be a place for informal play,
picnicking, strolling, jogging, sitting and viewing. The Town Square described in the
CCSP would be "in the tradition of a forum, providing a space for people to gather in
large groups and in smaller numbers to express their views and voice opinions on
matters of public interest" and a space designed to "feel comfortable during major civic
gatherings as well as when only a few individuals are present." As a central focus of
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community and social activities within the site, it should create an attractive terminus to
Main Street. The proposed designs reflects the tenets of the CCSP.
Design Development -Palisades Garden Walk
JCFO's concept for the park, described conceptually to the community as the "Arroyo
Wash," inspired the park's design. In its evolved design development form, the Arroyo
theme is carried out through hills, bays, plantings, overlooks, water features, lighting
and green screens.
Hills -The site's linear rolling topography is punctuated by a series of taller bluffs
organized around four distinct Hills: Garden, Discovery, Gathering and Grand.
Garden Hill,
characterized by rolling four
to six foot high planted hills,
features interweaving paths,
a grove of mature Ficus
trees complementing the
very large existing Moreton
Bay Fig - forming a shade
grove ideal for picnicking.
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Gathering Hill with its large
lawn and stepped seating
occupies the heart of the
park and accommodates ,~.F.va,FM~~
the largest number of users at once and can accommodate cultural events. The park's
restroom building is located adjacent to Gathering Hill and tucked under Grand Hill with
individual stalls that are accessed from both sides bringing natural light and ventilation
into the stalls.
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In response to community and Council feedback, Discovery Hill has. developed into a
playful destination for children of all ages and abilities, as well as adults. Universally
accessible play features include hillside slides, rubberized playing surface hills and
valleys, a water spray and play area within a natural boulder setting. Imaginative play
"pod" structures are proposed. Complementing the play area is an adjacent shaded
tree grove with picnic tables and seating. A gateway entry at the south edge welcomes
visitors into the park from amid-block crossing aligned with The Village Living Street
passageway.
Grand Hill features the most dramatic views overlooking Ocean Avenue, the Pier and
ocean beyond. At its highest point, Grand Hill rises 18 feet above the natural grade.
Gradual ramps lead to the dramatic hilltop, providing access for all and views from two
outlook structures and a connecting bridge. Visitors will be drawn to the overlook
structures where they can enjoy the scenery. At the south edge of the hilltop, visitors
will be able to sit beneath a large specimen tree.
Bays -Carved into the rolling topography are a series of bays that organize the site's
program and include spaces for small events and performances,. gardens, seating, play,
and bike parking along the outer edges of the park. Bikers' Bays with racks, seating,
drinking fountains and trash receptacles are located at Grand Hill, along Ocean Avenue
and Olympic Drive and at Main Street, where the Bay incorporates bus stop amenities.
Plantings -The CCSP's original goal for this park was that the site should become a
beautiful garden for the public to enjoy. Planting on the ground plane will consist of a
variety of native grasses, perennials, bulbs and small shrubs that are easily maintained
and. drought-tolerant. These elements of southern California horticulture provide
contrast to the open lawn, pedestrian pathways, and the creative contouring of landform
described in the CCSP.
Three forest types are grouped over the site: sycamores, oaks and pines -along with
relocated Ficus trees and other existing trees -creating different canopies for a variety
of shade experiences for informal play, picnicking and sitting. Specimen trees are
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planted at key locations throughout the park and include Arbutus Marina (Strawberry
Tree), Ceiba Speciosa (Floss Silk Tree) and the Platanus Racemosa (Western
Sycamore)
Overlooks -Marking the two topographically higher hills are the proposed overlook
structures that frame the views beyond, and provide dynamically shaped focal point
enclosures of painted steel. These overlook structures will be subtly and internally lit in
the evening. An ADA-accessible bridge, connecting the two hills will provide an
important view point as well. A third overlook structure adjacent to Garden Hill will
provide views over the I-1 ~ Freeway and down 2"d Street. This overlook is at grade.
Water Features -The design for Palisades Garden Walk includes two water features
linked by a subtle, but continuous, water runnel. Emanating from a third water feature in
Town Square, the presence of water throughout the park towards the ocean reinforces
the Arroyo concept and draws visitors into and through the site. The Water Bay
Cascade located close to Main Street is more naturalistic in design with large boulders.
on one side and a terraced edge integrated into the adjacent hillside on the other side.
Appropriately placed at the main park entrance, the Ocean Avenue Gateway Fountain is
the most dramatic and dynamic of the water features. It occupies the lower portion of
Grand Hill and adds the tranquil sound of water to offset traffic noise.
Lighting -The design features a hierarchy of lighting elements, from high poles to low
bollards, from up lighted specimen trees to under lighted benches. Appropriately scaled
lights will guide visitors through the main paths, ensure adequate overall light levels for
night time safety, added drama, accent ,water features and trees, and light
performances or other public events in the Gathering Hill.
Green Screens -Lushly planted green screens with integrated .concrete seat walls
have been added to the edge of the McClure Tunnel Bridge to visually integrate the
constrained deck with the main park entrance on Ocean Avenue. A cut-out in the
screen will allow for a framed easterly view of the I-10 Freeway. Green screens will
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also be used to screen the park maintenance building and above-ground utility
switching station located at the southwest corner of the park.
Changes Since Schematic Design - In response to community input, the design of
the park has been refined to include strengthened connections to the surrounding uses
including the future Downtown light rail station and the Village Housing. Changes
include the addition of a primary circulation route from the northeast corner of the site
(at the Main Street Bridge) to the southwestern area of the site (at the intersection of the
future Olympic Drive and the proposed mid-block crosswalk to the Village Housing), and
the articulation of the Ocean/Colorado Avenue corner as a gateway and destination.
Additional design refinements include: the removal of the lighting trellis and the
incorporation of most of the existing trees on site. Design details for many elements
within the park have evolved including: three overlook structures, three play structures,
lushly planted green screens and green walls, the water features, water runnels, the
public restroom, and a variety of park amenities such as seating and tables, drinking
fountains, trash receptacles and bike racks.
Design Development -Town Square
The plan for the Town Square design provides a comfortable space for major civic
gatherings and smaller intimate gatherings alike. It maintains several components that
link it to Palisades Garden Walk -the water feature and water runnel, complimentary
hardscape and benches, and an enlarged crosswalk at Main Street to accommodate
increased pedestrian flows between the two open spaces. During the review process,
the Landmarks Commission decided to supplement the City Hall Landmark Designation
in order to clearly define City Hall's exterior character-defining features. In response to
the May 9, 2011 determination by the Landmarks Commission, the proposed design for
Town Square was revised as follows:
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TOWN- SQUARE -PROPOSED DESIGN
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1. New windmill palm
2. Symmetrical planters
3. Dedication marker
4. Rectangular planting bed w/roses, + brick: border
5. New benches, retained brick, and new brick at entry walk
6. Exposed aggregate concrete sidewalk
7. Concrete entrance steps + brick border
8. Lawn areas
9. Rose arbor
10. New benches beneath rose arbor
11. Tabebuia impefiginosa trees
12. New benches beneath trees
13. Linear planting beds
14. Existing planting beds
15. Symmetrical seat walls
16. Relocated dedication markers
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Pathways -The design preserves the shape and form of the north-south and east-
west pathways while introducing a scoring pattern which takes its cues from the lines of
the building facade. The proposed aggregate concrete in a warm tone to match the
paving proposed for Palisades Garden Walk is proposed as an important element to
connect the Town Square with Palisades Garden Walk. This aggregate will also
complement- City Hall's accent the work. The existing brickwork outlining the main
paving area and planters will be preserved in place.
Plantings -Respecting the importance of the memorial rose garden, the JCFO team
revised design now preserves the garden in its current location and shape, but replaces
the aged (not original) rose plants with new healthy roses of a similar variety. A water
element is introduced surrounding the roses (described below) replacing the band of
accent turf. This change adds formality and elegance to this important focal point at the
entry to City Hall and center of Town Square. The footprint of the existing large turf
areas to either side of the main walkway is retained but broken up to be framed by a
meadow grass edge adjacent to either side of the main walkway and an allee of trees
flanking both the north and south edges of the lawn areas. The plan that was presented
to the Landmarks Commission and shown above features a double row of Pink Trumpet
shade trees that are aligned with the north and south edge of City Hall preserving, yet
formally framing, views of the building facade. Between the rows of trees, new pathways
for improved access, lighting and seating to activate the space are introduced.
To further frame the central. City Hall view and define seating areas and add shade,
between the open lawn and the intimate shaded seating areas on each side, JCFO has
proposed a rose arbor (see above) with beams and cable that integrate lighting and
rose plants. The design continues to embrace an ample open plaza area to
accommodate civic gatherings. One missing Windmill Palm in front of City Hall is
proposed to be replaced to balance the number of palms on either side of City Hall. The
sustainable demonstration garden would remain. The rose arbor structure is a critical
linking element with the steel screening elements throughout Palisades Garden Walk
and at the corner of Ocean and Colorado Avenues, unifying the two open spaces
architecturally.
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Site Furnishing -Workshop participants asked for additional areas for pleasant
seating so that the front of City Hall could be better used by visitors and employees.
JCFO's design places concrete benches facing the rose garden and water feature, and
beneath the rows of trees. The design includes colored concrete benches that match
the hardscape with backs and arm rests to meet ADA standards. JCFO proposes that
the design for the benches will also be complimentary in design to those in Palisades
Garden Walk to serve as a connective feature.
City Hall -City Hall's original Art Moderne fagade is currently ,
modified with layers of add-ons. JCFO proposes to clean-up .,;;d
the entrance and return it to its original historic integrity by
removing the blue awning, 1980s era stair railings, ramp ands`" --
overgrown Junipers. The plan presented by JFCO to the
sae~~.avae
Landmarks Commission on May 23~d also replaces .the '"
existing access ramp with long symmetrical ramps on either ~ °
side of the front entrance that would not require railings. To ~
complement the ramps and provide needed seating, the `' ~~
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design incorporates a seat wall in front of the low ramps.
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Additionally, the flagpole is proposed to be returned to the top F ~~ '~`' ~ ~_. ' ~ ~ ,
of City Hall where it was originally placed. The existing brick stairs at the City Hall
entrance are retained.
Water Feature.- As shown in the rendering above, a source water element with
reflective surface, infinity edge and gentle water sounds enhances the dedicated rose
garden. At its western edge, the fountain spills over and initiates the connective shallow
runnel, beginning in Town Square, flowing through the. Palisades Garden Walk site
towards the ocean beyond. This deepens and supports the Arroyo theme.
Lighting -Under-bench linear LED accent lighting, wall-recessed ramp lighting,
ground-recessed LED uplighting for the tree alleys, small LED arbor cable-mounted
downlights, LED adjustable pipe-mounted accents and spot lights for the main entrance
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to City Hall are included in the JCFO design to increase light levels without the
introduction of obtrusive light poles
Public Art
On January 28, 2011, the Arts Commission's public artist selection panel recommended
Inigo Manglano-Ovalle as the artist for the Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square
project and the Commission approved the artist selection on February 16, 2011. Mr.
Manglano-Ovalle participated in the final community workshop on February 26, 2011
and is collaborating with JCFO on preliminary conceptual design research for the art
piece. Updates on this collaboration will continue to be provided to the Arts
Commission. The City is currently in the process of entering into a contract with Mr.
Manglano-Ovalle for design development.
Community Workshops
Four community workshops were held between July 2010 and February 2011. The first
community workshop, attended by over 200 community members, was designed to elicit
thoughts, creative ideas, and suggestions on what their favorite existing features are on
the site and what they would like to see with the newly designed spaces. The second
community workshop was convened jointly by the Recreation & Parks and Planning
Commissions. Three preliminary design concepts ("Arroyo Ravine," "Arroyo Dune" and.
"Arroyo Wash") were presented for input. The schematic design, which was a hybrid of
the best and most-liked features of all three preliminary design concepts were
presented at the third community workshop convened jointly by the Recreation & Parks
and Planning Commissions on November 13, 2010. Design development plans were
presented at the fourth community workshop convened by the Recreation & Parks
Commission. Concurrently with each workshop, a survey document was made available
both at the workshop and online for community members to complete. A summary of
the results of the community input is included as Attachment C.
On January 29, 2011, a special Sustainable Park Landscapes educational workshop
was held to introduce the public to the native plant material palette being discussed for
use in the park. The workshop was led by JCFO and two of the design team's sub-
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consultants, noted horticulturalists Bob Perry and John Greenlee, and was well
attended by the community.
Regulatory Commission Reviews
Landmarks Commission - The Landmarks Commission was presented with
conceptual designs for Palisades Garden Walk and Town Square at its Jam, October
and December 2010 regular meetings. The proposals that were presented at these
meetings reflected significant alterations to the City Hall site. Concerned with the
potential impacts to this important historic resource and because the existing City Hall
designation failed to identify character defining features on the exterior, the Landmarks
Commission scheduled a public hearing to supplement the City Hall designation-and
identify the exterior character defining" features. On May 9, 2011, the Landmarks
Commission held the requested public hearing. Staffls historic preservation consultant t
prepared a report for the Commission that extensively researched and outlined existing
external features and their significance. After hearing testimony from the staff and the
public, the Commission voted unanimously to approve a supplement fo the Landmark
designation that identified the following contributing historic elements (Attachment D).
These features are as follows:
• Windmill Palms in the north and south gardens at front of City Hall;
• Concrete planters flanking the front entrance of City Hall;
• Dedication marker for City Hall;
• Rectangular planting bed .and brickwork in the center of the main entrance
walkway;
• Concrete curbs and brickwork flanking the main entrance walkway;
• Concrete sidewalks- and brickwork throughout much of the site including the
scoring pattern, proportions, textures and finish;
• Concrete entry steps and brickwork at the front, rear and south side;.
• Lawn areas (north and south) in front of City Hall and at the southeast corner of
the site;
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• Council parking lot and design configuration, north of City Hall;
• Canary Island Date Palms (3) in the Council Parking lot area;
• Mexican Fan Palms (7) overlooking the Santa Monica Freeway and adjacent to
the south elevation;
• The steeply-graded terraced hill, adjacent to the Freeway and remnants of the
retaining walls;
• Foundation planting beds surrounding City Hall;
• Flagpole;
• Memorial Rose Garden and dedication marker; and
• Symmetrical configuration of the landscape and hardscape elements at the front
of City Hall.
Following considerable discussion at its special meeting on Mav 23, 2011, including
acknowledging their overall support for the efforts that JCFO has made in developing a
design for Town Square that. is mindful of the character defining features of the space,
the .Landmarks Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for the design of
Town Square with the following conditions.
• Eliminate the rose arbors and corresponding paths;
• Return with details for paving materials. to match in-kind the current coloration
and texture;
• .Return. with a redesign of the proposed benches to be more responsive to the
historic character of the site;
• Return with a redesign of the ADA ramps at the entrance to City Hall to align with
the configuration of the existing ramp and preserve the planter area in front of the
ramp;
• Eliminate the seat wall in front of proposed City Hall ramps;
• Return with details regarding the placement of the existing memorial plaques
currently located within the rose garden and in the.pavement;
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• Return with detailed plans for the rose garden and the water feature including
refinements for the height of the water feature;
• Return with details for the color of the proposed plant palette and a new tree
species for consideration; and
• Return with details for replacing the existing handrails for the City Hall steps and
consider use of railing design to match or reflect the design of interior railings at
City Hall.
JCFO will return to the Landmarks Commission with their design responses to these
conditions in July 2011.
Architectural Review Board (ARBJ - On May 11.2011, the ARB held a public hearing
to review the proposed design of structures in Palisades Garden Walk including the
restrooms, overlook structures, bridge, maintenance shed, and green screen elements.
Following a lively discussion of the park features, the ARB approved the design of the
restroom building and green screen designs, with a request to return to the Board with
more details on the maintenance shed, the bridge and the overlook structures following
refinements to make them "more integrated" into their unique environment. Comments
from the Board included suggestions on how to improve certain aspects of these
elements. The Board members expressed how impressed they were generally with the
park design, describing it as "lyrical," "beautiful" and the siting of the park restrooms as
a smart design. Specifically mentioned by several of the commissioners was the need
for, and importance of, a strong linkage and design connection between Palisades
Garden Walk and Town Square.
JCFO is actively revising the overlook structures and bridge. designs. Conceptual
modifications to these structures, per the request for the ARB, will be presented with
this report for Council input. The new proposals will be presented again to ARB for their
review in July 2011. Since the maintenance shed is entirely screened from view, JCFO
will revise presentation materials to illustrate this point when it returns to the Board.
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Advisory Commissions Reviews
Recreation & Parks Commission -The Recreation & Parks Commission has been
present at every community workshop and has been updated regularly by staff. The
Commission met jointly with the Planning Commission at two community workshops.
The Recreation and Parks Commissioners have regularly congratulated the design
team on their successful community process over the past months and for their ability to
synthesize the community's thoughts about the park at every stage of design. Most of
the Commissioners agreed with the positive comments from the community that
included: the defined walking loop and improved connectivity, the "timelessness" of the
overall design, the planting plans, the choice of materials for the pathways and furniture,
and the improvements at the Discovery Hill play area. Suggestions offered by the
Commissioners included the addition of food vendor areas within the park, the need for
adequate infrastructure at the lawn area for events, the need for adequate funding to
maintain the landscape over time, the need for the play area of the park to
accommodate the needs of children and parents with disabilities, family-friendly facilities
in the restrooms, and concerns about the daytime aesthetic appeal of the trellis lighting
and the up lighting for trees as atrip-hazard. The Commissioners emphasized the need
to make Town Square an inviting gathering space for civic discourse and press
conferences, while maintaining a distinguished presence and a connection to Palisades
Garden Walk (Attachment E).
Revised design development plans address Commission concerns by ensuring
adequate infrastructure for performances in Gathering Hill, offering accessible play
areas and play structures in Discovery Hill, family stalls in the public restroom and
elimination of the trellis lighting in Palisades Garden Walk.
Planning Commission -The Planning Commission was convened at both the second
and third community workshops (concept and schematic design), in joint session with
the Recreation & Parks Commission and provided their comments and suggestions to
the design consultant on the proposed design which were then accommodated. Key
issues raised by the Planning Commission related to improving connections to the
adjacent uses, and recognizing the importance of providing appropriate entrances,
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bicycle access, and direct routes through the park. The Planning Commission was
supportive of the design refinements, which reconfigured the entrances adjacent to the
Village and to the Main Street route to downtown and the Light Rail Station. Planning
Commissioners complimented the design team on their design responsiveness in
addressing context by improving connections and designing a park that is both a
destination and a part of a larger circulation system that will integrate it with the
downtown and the beach. On June 8, 2011, design development plans were presented
to the Planning Commission for input. Because this report was completed prior to the
visit, staff will verbally report on the Commissioners' comments.
Disabilities Commission.- The Disabilities Commission sent a letter to the Mayor and
City Council on March 28, 2011 regarding concerns including seating types, adequate
parking, concrete surfacing and universally accessible play areas. Staff prepared a
response explaining that greater than 50% of the seating in the park is designed to meet
and exceed ADA standards, as is the proposed walking surface of aggregate concrete.
Adequate parking will be available along the new segment of Olympic Drive South and
the play features that are proposed are designed for all ages and abilities (Attachment
F). Staff is scheduled to present the park design to the Disabilities Commission on
June 6, 2011.
Commission on the Senior Community - A letter dated May 3, 2011 was sent to the
Mayor and the City Council from the Commission on the Senior Community expressing
the need for adequate seating and lighting, sufficient adjacent disabled parking, and
measures to prevent the riding of bikes, skateboards, roller-blades and Segways in the
park. Staff prepared a letter in response addressing all concerns and attended the
Commission's regular meeting on May 18, 2011 (Attachment G).
Recommended Design Development Direction
The design development scheme presented at the community workshop on February
26, 2011, has undergone an evolutionary and progressive development. The current
design for Palisades Garden Walk and Town Square has responded to feedback from
the community, City Council, the Recreation & Parks Commission, Architectural Review
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Board, Planning Commission, Landmarks Commission, Disabilities Commission, and
Commission on the Senior Community and the Urban Forest Master Plan Task Force.
Staff is requesting input and approval from Council on the design development and
direction to staff to proceed with construction documentation while also returning to the
Landmarks Commission and Architectural Review Board on those specific items
detailed above.
CEQA Review
Pursuant to CEQA, environmental impacts associated with Palisades Garden Walk and
Town Square were addressed in the Santa Monica. Civic Center Specific Plan EIR SCH
#2003011074 (certified by the City Council on June 28, 2005). In particular, the EIR
analyzed construction traffic, construction air quality, geology, and historic impacts that
could occur as a result of development of the parks in the Civic Center. The Palisades
Garden Walk and Town Square Design meets the parameters of this park project
analyzed in the CCSP EIR. The analysis within the EIR considered site grading
(export/import) as well potential historic issues. The current design of Palisades Garden
Walk and Town Square would not result in new significant impacts and/or an increase in
the severity of previously identified significant impacts. Rather, the current design of
Palisades Garden Walk, which includes four "hills", would reduce the need for soil
export/import due to the re-use of fill from excavation from another CCSP project, the
Village Housing project, and consequently, would result in reduced impacts relative to
construction traffic, construction air quality, and geology. In addition, as identified in the
EIR, mitigation measures were incorporated to ensure that the Town Square would not
have a significant impact on the historic City Hall. None of the conditions described in
CEQA Guidelines Section 151.62 have occurred which would necessitate additional
environmental review.
Additional Project Considerations
® At this time, the park design will move forward, and any improvements to the
existing cafe, currently located at the western edge of Palisades Garden Walk
along Ocean Avenue, and funding for these improvements will be presented to
Council at a later date. In the meantime, staff will assess several options for
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sharing costs for design and construction, from partnering with a cafe operator to
leasing land and allowing restaurateurs to be responsible for all improvements.
• As a result of the opportunity to obtain soil from the neighboring Village Housing
project at no cost to the project, 55,000 cubic yards of soil will be delivered to the
site in September/October of 2011. An Information Item describing this
opportunity was prepared on Aril 12, 2011. A staff report requesting Council
approval to select American Landscape as the contractor for the site preparation
work necessary in advance of the soil delivery is on the June 14th Council
agenda.
• The tree relocation work on the Palisades Garden Walk site will involve:
Trees to be removed and not relocated
2 Ficus that are in serious decline.
Trees to be protected in place
1 large Moreton Bay Fig
2 Eucalyptus
73 Washingtonia Robusta (palms)
Trees to be relocated on-site
1 Pepper
2 Podocarpus
5 Phoenix Canariensis (palms)
16 Ficus
3 Ficus Rubiginosa ("Three Amigos")
Trees to be relocated off-site
20 Washingtonia Robusta (palms) (per Coastal Commission requirements, this
species cannot be relocated within the coastal zone)
The tree relocation work for Town Sauare will involve:
Trees to be removed and not relocated
2 Carobs in the northern parkway, one that is in serious decline and one that
will not tolerate relocation.
4 Junipers planted against the City Hall building entrance. (These Junipers
cannot be relocated because of their constrained location proximate to the
building and the intertwining of their roots. Transplanting of Junipers in this
condition would require extensive root pruning that would seriously impact their
chance of survival.)
Trees to be protected in place
1 large Japanese Maple. in the northwestern triangle of the site
1 Bunya-Bunya tree at the northwest corner of City Hall
7 Wiridmill Palms against City Hall
2 rows of Tipuanas along Olympic Drive
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Trees to be relocated off-site
1 small Japanese Maple. in the northwestern triangle of the site
1 Albizzia in the northwestern triangle of the site
2 Tipuanas in the northern parkway
2 Junipers in the planted beds west of City Hall. (Given their growing conditions
and placement, these two Junipers have an increased chance of survival as they
do not have intertwined root systems and thus will not require significant root
pruning.)
• Staff is moving forward with the selection of adesign-builder for the park project,
in order to commit the Redevelopment Agency funds allocated to the Palisades
Garden Walk & Town Square by Council. The request to award this contract will
be presented to Council for consideration on June 28, 2011.
Next Steps
Based on Council input on the direction for the proposed design development, the
following next steps are anticipated:
• Return to Landmarks Commission and the ARB -July 2011
• Coastal Commission -August 2011
• Preliminary site work to prepare the site for soil from the Village Housing
excavation - August/September 201.1
• Grading and compaction of the imported soil -September/October 2011
• Park Naming -Fall 2011
• Completion of construction documents -January 2012
• Plan check and permitting -Spring 2012
• Construction -Late Spring 2012 for 15 Months
McClure Tunnel Bridge/Ocean Avenue Sidewalk Widening - 2014
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Financial Impacts & Budget Actions
There is no budget or financial impact associated with this action.
Prepared by: Jean Bellman, Architect. Public Works
Julie Silliman, Sr. Administrative Analyst, Community & Cultural Services
Approved:
Martin Pastucha
Director of Public Works
Forwarded to Council:
~-a~-~~
Rod Gould
City Manager
Approved:
Barbara Stinchfield
Director. of Community & Cultural
Services
Attachments:
A. Design Development Presentation
B. Community Engagement Strategy
C. Community Workshop and Survey Results
D. Landmarks Commission Supplemental Determination
E. Commission Comments
F. Correspondence with the Disabilities Commission
G. Correspondence with the Commission for the Senior Community
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Attachment C
Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square
Community Workshop and Survey Results
July 24, 2010 on site
200-250 community members
Comment Cards
Context:
• Provide visual connection to the ocean and city hall
• Provide physical connections to the site's adjacent
destinations
Edges:
• Wind breaks and shelter
• Buffer noise and screen
adjacent roads
Core:
• Protect existing trees
• Provide additional shade
• Maintain flexible open
space
Workshop Stations
Com m u n itv Context
• Views to the ocean are desirable
• Connection to primary bike routes within the city is
desirable
• Adjacent to shopping areas, the Pier, and Palisades Park
Park Use: Palisades Garden Walk (io}ioo)
• Areas for picnicking, sitting relaxing, reading & viewing.
21%
• Horticulture and display gardens 17%
• Public art 13%
Park Themes: Palisades Garden Walk (i ofioo)
• Views and topography 18%
• Innovation and progressive design 17%
• Habitat and horticulture 11%
Park Uses: Town Square (iofloo)
• Areas for organized civic events and activities 31%
• Public art 14%
• Areas that enhance and complement city hall and its
history 12%
Park Themes: Town Square (/ ofioo)
• Civic engagement + public discourse 19%
• Identity & destination 14%
• Innovation and progressive design 12%
Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square Page 1 of 5
Attachment C
Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square
Community Workshop and Survey Results
435 respondents completed surveys Palisades Garden Walk
during workshop or on-line Uses (In priority order,_combined%for "very important"and "important')
• Areas for picnicking, lounging, sitting, reading, relaxing and
viewing 92%
• Pathways for walking, running and cycling 85%
• Areas for cultural events 69%
Themes (In priority order, combined % for "very important" and "important")
• Sustainability+theEnvironment 83%
• Views+TOpography78
• Access+Connectivity69%
Town Square
USeS (In priority order, combined % for "very important" and "important' J
• Areas of sitting, reading and viewing 76%
• Areas for organized civic events and activities 75%
• Areas for informal gathering 72%
Themes (In priority order, combined% for "very important" and "important' J
• Civic engagement + public discourse 79%
• Sustainability+the Environment 78%
• Access + Connectivity 74%
Palisades Garden Walk and Town Square
Greatest Opportunity (In priority order, % of 100)
• Creation of a new destination in the heart of Santa Monica
28%
• Strong adjacent destinations 25%
Greatest Challenge pn priority order, % of 100)
• Designing a space that works for multiple used at different
times of the day and week 19%
• Parking availability 17%
• Traffic 17%
.~
September 19, 2010 Review of Concept Designs
at Santa Monica Civic Auditorium At this joint meeting of the Recreation and Parks and Planning
Commissions, three concept designs were reviewed:
120 community members • The Arroyo Wash
o The Arroyo Ravine
• The Arroyo Dune
Breakout groups reported:
Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square Page 2 of 5
Attachment C
Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square
Community Workshop and Survey Results
• Wash and Dune schemes held the most interest
• Tall overlook facing the Pier and the beach in Ravine
scheme was also well liked
Breakout groups most favored these characteristics:
• Dramatic topography
• Woodland planting and meadows
• Viewing platforms and overlooks
• Social seating
• Intimate gardens
• Specimen trees and botanical displays.
• An outdoor cafe
• A ~atherint; space for events
124 respondents completed surveys Scheme Wlth best PARK USE (In priority order, combined % for "strongly
during workshop or on-line like"and"like')
• The Arroyo Wash 84%
• The Arroyo Dune 66%
• The Arroyo Ravine 36%
Ratings for DESIGN ELEMENTS (In priority order, combined /for
"strongly like" and" like')
• Woodland Planting+Meadows88
• Social Seating 85%
• Viewing Platforms and Overlooks 83%
• Dramatic Topography 82%
• Water Features 74%
• Specimens+ Botanical Display 71%
• Individual + Intimate Gardens 70%
• Trellis and Aerial Lighting 69%
• Outdoor Cafes 66%
• Large Gathering Spaces 66%
November 13, 2010 Review of Schematic Design
at Santa Monica High School Cafeteria Atthis joint meeting of the Recreation and Parks and Planning
Commissions, participants reviewed the Schematic Design.
130 community members
Breakout groups most favored these characteristics:
• overlooks and bluffs
Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square Page 3 of S
Attachment C
Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square
Community Workshop and Survey Results
• water features
• bays
• trellis lighting
109 respondents completed surveys
during workshop or on-line
February 26, 2011
at Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
80 community members
Breakout groups reported:
• Strong feelings for and against the frames that punctuate
the overlooks and provide a focal point for scenic views
• Disagreement about whether bike lanes needed to be
wider or should be removed from the park
• Desire for larger bike parking and valet areas at the
periphery
• Connectivity of the park to its surroundings was of critical
Rating for COMPONENTS (In priority order, combined %jor "strongly
like" and" like' J
• Mix of uses 85%
• Ratio of canopy cover 86%
• Ratio of softscape and hardscape 75%
• Edge conditions and entry locations 76%
• Circulation of bikes 50%
Rating for PEATU RES (/n priority order, combined % for "strongly like" and"
like')
• Gardens 89%
• Places/Bays 85%
e Overlooks/Bluffs 81%
• Water feature 8l%
Review of Design Development
At this meeting of the Recreation and Parks Commission,
participants reviewed Design Development Plans.
Breakout groups reported:
• Garden, Grand and Discovery Hills were the most well liked
places in the park
• Many questions raised about the organic overlook
structure designs, view impacts and the connection to the
park design
• Planting layout and palette had
Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square
Page 4 of 5
Attachment C
Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square
Community Workshop and Survey Results
•, ~ ~ • p
I " '" The im ortance of water features was mentioned several
~:: ~~,
times
• Questions raised about the amount of light and air in the
public restrooms
_ • Least excited by the design of Town Square
121 respondents completed surveys Rating for tha52 PLACES (In priority order, combined % for "strongly like"
during workshop or on-line and"like")
• Garden Square 93%
• Discovery Hill 91%
• Gathering Hill 88%
• Grand Hill 76.1%
• Town Square 39.6%
Rating for th252 FEATURES (In priority order, combined / jor'strongly
like' and" like")
• Planting 92%
• Play Areas 84%
• Furniture 78%
• Water Features 74%
• Overlooks/Bluffs 72%
• Public Restroom 64%
• Park Restroom 64%
• Parking Lighting 57%
Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square Page 5 of 5
Attachment D
city atsanta nnomca ~anamarxs commission
May 23, 2011 Meeting
SUPPLEMENTAL DETERMINA710N OF'THE CITY OFSANTA MONIGA
LANDMARKS COMMISSION ESTABLISHING EXTERIOR CHARACTER DEFINING
FEATURES FOR THE' CITY HALL SITE
PURPOSE
The Landmarks Commission herebyprepares and adopts a Supplemental Determination
that identifiesthe contributing historic elementsand features ofthe landscape and grounds
surrounding Santa Monica City Halt("City Hall"} relative o its status asa designated City
Landmark.
REGULATORY SETTING
Santa. Monica Municipal .Code. (SMMC) Section 9.36.060(x) states that the Landmarks
Commission shall have the power to "Designate Structures. of Merit, Landmarks and
Landmark Parcels;. and to make any preliminary or supplemental designations;
determinations, or decisions, as additions hereto, in order to effectuate the purposes° of
Santa Monica: Municipal Code Chapter 9:36. SMMC 9:36.120 (f) further states that the
Landmarks Commission hasthe,powerto make preliminary or supplemental designations,
determinations or decisions, as additions#o its designation determinations.
ill. HISTORICAL CONTEXT AND :SETTING
The City Hall building dominates the broad, .relatively symmetrical and formal landscape
which: visually supports the structure's monumentality and prominence on the sfte. The
building exterior is an example of the 1934x: PWA Moderne styleof architecture, which
emphasized balanced massing, smooth lines; symmetrical fenestration, faceted corners,.
and the use of understated decorative elements. The architecturaFcomposition of City Hall
consists of a hree-storycentrai pavilion flanked bytwo-and-a-halfstorysymmetrical wings.
The building's distinctive architectural-features include the stepped. and faceted mass,
stylized vertical fluting, horizontal streamline detailing,: a varietyof decorative ornamental
featuresand file work. The foot priht,scale, form, balanced massing, ciassicalproportions
and concrete masonryconstruction ofthebuilding are the primary architectural anddesign
characteristicsthat have a direct relationship with.the landscape setting. The projecting
central pavilion, the L•shaped wings to the nodh and south with recessed. courts, a rear
l1-shaped courtyard to the east, and the faceted treatment of the building's corners, all
directly ihfluence the figure/ground relationship of the architecture with the surrounding
landscape. Likewise, the site layout, design, and proportions of the various landscape
compone nts relatesdirectly to the building's footprint; scale; massing, design composition,
and distinctive monumental architecture:
City Hail is oriented facing west toward_Main Street and is situated. in fhe center of a
generally flat site which consists of approximately 6.24 acres.. The existingsetting for Santa:
Monica. Gity Hal! is defined by its open character and symmetrical organization which
presently appears much as it did during the historic period. of significance (1938-1957). The
Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square Page 1 of 3
Attachment D
landscape setting is distinguished by an expansive: front. lawn that encompasses the
majority of the western front of the site. The symmetrical. layout of the sidewalks; planters
and planting beds reinforces the architectural design of the PWA Moderne City Hali, and.
the original Paimtree plantingsstili enliven the west and south facades ofthe. building and
define the. northern border of the site.
IV. CITY OF SANTA. MONICA LANDMARKS COMMISSION ACTIONS
A. On October16,1979; the Landmarks Ccmmissiondesignatedthe structure
and site known as Santa. Monica City Haii as a Gity Landmark pursuant to
Landmark Designation Ctfteria #1, #2, #3, #4, and #5 identified in SMMC
Section 9.36:100. (Attachment A}
B. On January 9, 2011, the Landmarks Commission filed a request to
supplement the Landmark designation of City Nall to identify exterior
character defining features:
C. On May 9, 2011, the Landmarks Commission reviewed and considered the
analysis presented in the "Character Defining Features Analysis -Santa
Monica. .City Hali Landscape and. Grounds", prepared by PCR Services
Corporation, dated ApriC2011, and conducted a public hearing in accordance
with the requirements established by`Santa Monica Municipal Code Section
9.36:120{f), and voted by motionto adopt this supplementaldetermination
identifying. and establishing. the character defining features of the landscape
and grounds surrounding City,Haii.
V. ESTABLISHMENT OF CONTRIBUTING HISTORIC ELEMENTS AND.FEATURES
OF THE LANDSCAPE AND GROUND SURROUNDING CITY HALL
The Landmarks Commission hereby determines that tha following are the character
defining features of the City-Hall site:
A. Windmi8 Palms in the north and south gardens at front of City Hall;
B: Concrete planters flanking the front entrance of City Hall;
C. Dedication markerfor City Hail;
D. Rectangular planting bed and brickwork in the center of the main entrance.
walkway;
E. Concrete curbs and brickworkflanking the main entrance;waikway;
F. Concrete sidewalks and brickworkthroughoutrnuch of the site including the
scoring pattern, proportions, textures, Dolor and finish;
G. Concrete entry steps and brickwork at the front, rear; antl south side;.
H. Lawn areas (north and south} in the front of City Hall and at the southeast
.corner of the site;
i. .Council Parking lot and design configuration, north of City Hain,
J. Canary Island Date Palms (3} in the Council Parking lot area;
K. Mexican Fan Palms (7}overlooking the Santa Monica Freeway and adjacent
to the south elevation;
L. The steeply-graded terraced hill, adjacent to the Freeway and remnants of
Design Development for Palisades Garden walk & Town Square Page 2 of 3
Attachment D
VI.
the retaining walls;
M. Foundation planting beds surrounding City Hall;
N. Flagpole;
O: Memorial Rose Garden and dedication marker; and
P. Symmetrical configuration of the landscapeand hardscape elements at the
frontof City Nall
RECORD OF DETERMINATIt?N
I hereby certify that the above supplemental determinationto its October 16,1979
designation of City Hall asa Gity Landmark accurately'reflects the determnationof
the .Landmarks .Commission of the Gity of Santa Monica on May 9, 2011 as
determined by the followingroote:
AYES: Bach, Fresco, Censer, Kaplan, Lehrer, Shari; Chair Berley
ABSTAIN`. none
ABSENT: none
NAYES: none
Respectfully Submitted.
May 23, 2011
Ruth Shari, Chair Prc-Tem
Attest:
Scott Albright, AICP
Landmarks Commission Secretary
Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square Page 3 of 3
Attachment E
Commission Comments
September 19, 2010. ~ The Commissioners:
• were greatly impressed by all three designs and liked
elements from each of them
• emphasized the need to provide for bicycles, but were
divided as to whether bicycles should be able to go through
or only around the park
• stressed the need for a stronger perimeter, entrances and
exits, and diagonal connectivity in all directions
• were divided as to whethera pedestrian bridge or scramble
intersection is preferable for the Colorado and Ocean
Avenue crossing to the Pier entrance and Palisades Park
• expressed interest in the flow and open space aspects of
the Wash and Ravine schemes, but also liked the intimate
spaces of the Dune scheme and the need to achieve an
ideal balance
• liked (most) the concept of high canopy trees to provide
shade and preserve views
• were in support ofdrought-tolerant/native plantings,
including some color
• voiced support for water features
• supported the idea of a public gathering and performance
space
• most complimented the trellis lighting in Arroyo Wash, but
some mentioned tying in the lighting concept from 2nd and
4th Streets
• most expressed that the Ravine concept was too harsh, but
liked the height for its view potential
• most expressed concern regarding safety issues and
maintenance costs, especially related to the wooden
walkways featured in the Dune concept
• some felt that there is not enough play/family space, but
noted that the parks should be for all people
• most would Tike to see play areas that incorporate natural
elements as opposed to brightly colored plastic, suggestion
that the area behind the outdoor cafe could be a good
location
• some suggested introducing aspects of fun, whimsy and
humor and perhaps flexible furniture/seating arrangements,
while expressing appreciation for the elegance of the
current designs
• all comment that all of the park areas must be ADA
compliant
• suggested that the designers consider allergies when
choosing planting materials
Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square Page 1 of 3
Attachment E
Commission Comments
• asked that the future potential of freeway capping be taken
into consideration as design moves forward
• suggested the design integrate human history and art
elements
• emphasized the importance of this park as a destination
rather than just for passing through
• called for a bold and striking design
November 13, 2010 The Commissioners:
• highly commended the design as a beautiful and
memorable destination
• supported the community's sentiment for connectivity of
the park to its surroundings, with particular focus on the
need for an additional access point on the northeast corner
of the site through to the main axis to create flow from the
Expo Station and downtown to the park.
• recommended larger bicycle parking areas
• some suggested that a wider bicycle path through the park
be provided and others suggested that any bicycle path
within the park should be narrower and for recreational
purposes such as teaching young children to ride
• general support expressed for the proposed framed views
• expressed concern regarding safety and security issues
• generally liked proposed trellis lighting with some concerns
expressed about obstruction of the night sky and the effect
during the day
• expressed the need to incorporate play and discovery
opportunities in the park for all ages
• suggested higher overlooks
• stressed incorporating sustainable practices including
stormwater filtration, and drought-tolerant planting
• emphasized that all of the park be ADA compliant
• emphasized the need to insure that adequate maintenance
funds be provided to maintain the park over the long term
• noted that there may be a need for more restrooms
• as design is refined, consideration should be given to ensure
that accommodations are made for event management
logistics
• expressed that the Town Square design featured too much
hardscape
• .strong support expressed for the water features, with some
suggesting that they be adaptable to reflect the seasons
• recommended that allergies be considered in determining
plant selection
Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square Page 2 of 3
Attachment E
Commission Comments
February 26, 2011 ~ The Commissioners:
• Commended the design team on an excellentjob and
outstanding public process
• Liked the defined walking loop and improved connectivity
• Complimented the timelessness of the overall design, but
questioned the relevancy of the shell frames at the
overlooks over the long-term and their potential as
obstructions
• Suggested that there be opportunities for food vendors
within the park and possibly towards its center
• Stressed the need to ensure that infrastructure
requirements are incorporated into the design to
accommodate events at the lawn area
• Were very supportive of the planting plans and stressed
the importance of having funds to support the
maintenance necessary to maintain the quality of the
landscape over time
• Praised the choice of materials for pathways, furniture,
etc.
• Commended the improvements to Discovery Hill play areas
and noted the need to accommodate the needs of children
with disabilities
• Questioned if there are enough restrooms and suggested
family-friendly facilities
• Some expressed concern about the daytime aesthetic
appeal of the trellis lighting and whether the tall light poles
might be too industrial
• Cautioned that uplighting trees can be a trip hazard
• Some questioned the balance of shade to open space
• Suggested better connectivity to the beach via Ocean
Avenue and Olympic Drive for pedestrians and bikes
• Emphasized the need to make Town Square an inviting
gathering space for civic discourse and press conferences,
while maintaining a distinguished presence
Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square Page 3 of 3
Attachment F
~~r
City of
Santa Monica"
March 28, 2011
Disabilities Commiuion
1685 Main Street -
PO Box 2200
Santa Monica, California 90407-2200
Honorable Richard Bloom, Mayor
Members of the City Council
City of Santa Monica
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica CA 90401
Subject: Universally Accessible Playgrounds and Civic Center Parks (Arroyo Wash)
Dear Mayor Bloom and City Council Members:
It is the mission of the Disabilities Commission to respond to Council concerns and
make recommendations to Council regarding issues impacting people with disabilities in
Santa Monica, With this letter, the Disabilities Commission brings to your attention the
matter of universally accessible playgrounds and the ongoing design of the Civic Center
Park.
First, the Disabilities Commission was extremely pleased to team that the South Beach
Park design and construction included a feasibility study for inclusion of a universally
accessible playground. For at least a few years, the Disabilities Commission has
requested that the City install universally accessible playgrounds at all new and
renovated playgrounds and add universally designed elements to existing playgrounds.
Thank you very much for your support in making universally accessible playgrounds in
Santa Monica a7eality.
As we all know, the City, in association with the design team and the Recreation and
Parks Commission, has held four meetings to gather input and share information
regarding the design of the Civic Center Park (tentatively called the "Arroyo Wash").
Many. commissioners from the Disabilities Commission have attended at least one
meeting and a few have attended three or four of there. Commissioners, including
myself, have consistently provided input as intlividuals throughout this public process:
At this time, I am writing to you on behalf of a unanimous Disabilities Commission in
order to provide input regarding the design of the Arroyo Wash. Specifically:
Universally accessible play features - as of the February 26'" design meeting,
universally accessible play features have not been incorporated throughout the park.
While we recognize that certain elements, such as the flat ground water fountain,
may be accessible to some people with disabilities, too many playground elements
are inaccessible to children who use wheelchairs or have mobility or other
challenges.
tel: 310-458-8701 . TDD: 310-458-8696 . fax: 310-458-3380
Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square Page 1 of 4
Attachment F
Seating areas throughout the park -adequate space adjacentto benches should
be allotted far people who use wheelchairs, including the shaded seating areas that
will be orreftherside of the entrance to City Hall. Additionally, the Lily Pooi has large
rocks where people can sit next to the pool; people. with disabilities are unlikely'to
have the opportunity to enjoy the same space without changes in the design that
waspresented on February 26~'.
Adequate nearby parking for people with disabilities -the recentdesign does
not appear to provide sufficient adjacent accessible parking. This. is necessary to
ensure people with disabilities can access the park: without having #o traverse unduly
long distances.
Concrete surfacing throughout the park- we are concerned thatthe coarse
aggregate surface that will comprise the bulk of the paved areas may cause difficulty
far people who are older or have ambulation difficulties.
We appreciate this opportunity to provide inpu# on what is likely to become Santa
Monica's flagship park; in so doing, we endeavor to improve the quality of life and full
integration of people with disabilities in Santa Monica. To ensure that people with
various disabilities are not dissuaded or disappointed in using the park, we .ask that the
Council supports universal design to the maximum extent feasible.. The Disabilities
Commission respectfully requests consideration of its input and looks forward to
reviewing future designs.
Again, thank you for your continued support in making universally accessible
playgrounds a reality in Santa Monica.
Sincerely,
Chri ofer Arr o
Chair
ec: Barbara Stinchfield, Director of Community & Cultural Services
James Corner Field Operations
Neil Carrey, Chair, Recrea#ion and Parks Commission
Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square Page 2 of 4
Attachment F
Department of Public Vdorks
ArchRecture Services.
1437 4v' Street, 5ufte 300
Santa Monica, California 90401
{310).458-2205 Main
ci~y. or. . (310) 399-1541 Fax
SunEa Mooioa
May 9, 2011
Mr.ChristoferArroyo, Chair'
Disabilities Commission
16&5 MainStreet
PO Box 2200
Santa Monica, California 90407-2200
RE: Palisades Gardeh Walk+Town5quare and Accessibility Features
Dear Mr. Arroyo:
Thank you very much fog your #houghtfui letter to the Mayor and City CouncF regarding the heetl for
universally accessible playgrounds and design elements added to existing playgrounds. insofar as your
thougfits impact our new park,tlesign, i have been given the opportunity to respond to your
.Commission's collective thinking abou€these important design features. It is my hope that you will all .
ultimately be satisfied#hat accessibility has been given a high priority in every aspect of the design and ;
the park will be wonderfu{place forpeopie of aU abilities to en3oy.
if i may,. I will respond to each ofyour points;
t)ntversallyaccessible playfeatures-Our designers {James Corner yield Operations):have
addressed the issueaf"universally accessible play features in the park ince the community
meeting on the 26"' offebruary. Our parkhas never included a "playground" per se, but rather
play"features and experiences." These features include several slides, three amazing play
structures with atelescope, apush-button water play "spray pad", a sound wall, and talktubes,
More features may be'added as the design evolves. Ait of heabove-mentioned featuresare
accessible from he ground and exceed naiional ApA-standards forplay spaces. Furthermore,
they targeta wide range of chitdren of different ages:and abilities includingthose with visual,
audio, and other developmental disabilities that are not covered by ADA standards.
• Seating areas throughout the park-Park seating will be available as:built-in concrete and/or
concrete and wood benches, and free-standing chairs as well as seating picnc,tables, seaTwails
and boulderseating.. Companion seating isavailable throughout the: park formore than 50%of
all seating areas. The boulders near the water play area ihcorporate seatingand'ifa cioservievJ
Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square Page 3 of 4
Attachment F
is desired,, a ramp into the water play area has Geed: provided. More thamSO%af all seating in
the park. is ADA-accessible.
Adequate nearby parking for people: with disabilities- Although the park'does not have its
own dedicated parking lot, the'neweztension of Olympic Dr;ye`5outh (the'entire southern edge
of the parkj will have metered parkingspaces on both sides of the street. Though this parking
has not yet been laid out, we have calculated the potential for 40 cars to be parked there with
arradditional mid-block crosswalk.:
Concretesurfacinglhroughout he park -- The park walkway material has evolved from the
originai,pian and will not be using stabilized decomposed gradite surfacing. Ourdesigofirm
IistenedcarefuNyattbe last community workshop andare presently working on samplesof othe
materials that.are concrete-like, withsmaii aggregate. They are fullyaware that the surfacing o
the park walkways must meet,ADA standards and notpose a difficulty forolder people and
Yhose wkh ambulation d~cuities. The surface needsao be slip: resistanYhoweversnd hesma!
aggregate they are proposing: is promised to rSotbe overly coarse ortextured, butwill fit
appropriately in-a park setting
Wevery much appreciate yourmmments and`want to assure you and the Disabilities Commission thai
both the design firm and City staff are working toward the same mutuaigoalas yours: to make our rieur
park accessible and enjoyable: to everyone.
Please. do not hesitate to call. or writeif you have further concerns.
Very sincerely,
lit t~~-
Miriam Mulder
Architecture Services Manager
City of Santa Monica
Architecture Services.
1937.4e' Street, Suite 300
SadtaMonica;California 90401
Cc: Hon. Richard Bloom, Mayor
City Council Members
Barbara Stinchfield, DirectocCommunity&.Cuiturei5ervices
James Corner, James Corner Field Operations:
Neil Garrey,. Chair, Recreation and Parks Commission
Martin' Pastucha, Director of Public Works
Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square Page 4 of 4
Attachment G
Commission rwr The Senior Community
t685 Main Street
PO Box 2200
Santa Monica, California 90407-2200
City P1
~n9t5. CHi6~6at`
May 3, 2011
Honprable Rithard Bloom,: Mayor
Members of the Gry Countil
City of Sama MOOIta
1665 Main Street
Santa Monica CA 90402
subJed: Proposed Design Elements of the Civk Center Parks
Dear Mayor Bloom and City Council Members
The Commission for the Senior Community is deAgMed to participate in the process for developing the design of the
proposed Civk Center Packs. Several of us have attended the community meetings, and we had a presentation to the
Commission fromlulie SRifman from Community and Cultural Services, who was very attentive to our rnncems.
Generattyspeaking, She Commission members are quite satis0ed with the proposed design, but we request that asyou
work toward Rnalization of the plans you bear in mind the following issues of toncem to the senior community:
• few seniors, H any, are able to traverse the area In the S-minute ttmeframe suggested during the meetings.
we may need to stop and rest along the way. Thus, there must be seating areas throughout the park.
- "• The seats themselves must be of different heights. gad hips, knees and other infirmities present various
height requkements.
• Many people; not only seniors, need some help in rising hombeing seated on a benih; for this some
armrests, or at feast handles need to be incorporated in the design.
• Appropriate shade trees need to be sphered about as well. Of course not every leaking duster has to be
shaded, but there should be choices.
• And when shade from the sun is rtot an Issue, there needs to be lighting for safely wending our ways:
Somewhat more broadly we have two other consideratigns. The Rrn of these is the proximity {or Zack thereof) of
adequate parking,for those of us who have handkapped placards. From the current Civic tenter parking structure to
the arroyo is quite a hike. This is unatceptabie.
We are VERY concerned That there be strict restrictions on whidt "wheels` are permitted withM the perimeter of the
park. That means NO bicycles, skateboards, roiler•blades, or Segways. The onty permissible wheeled devkes should
be wheelchaGS, walkers and baby strollers,.
The Commission for the Senior Community thanks you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
t~,
Rochelle le ela air
cc: -. garbara5tinch0eld,DUettorofCommuniry&CulturalServices
lames Corner Field Cperetions
Neil Garrey, Chair, Reuea[ion and Packs Commission
tel: 310.458-8701 + TDD: 310.458.8696 + fair. 3t0-d58-3380
Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square Page 1 of 3
Attachment G
Department of Community and
Guiturai Services
` 7685 Main Street ,Room 270
~
• PO Box 2200
""~ Santa Monica, Cakifornia 904074200
<+ty at
$87ltat Ma7eiua"
May 13,2011
Ms. Rochel~ i.e Blanc, Chair
CommissionforSenior Community
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, Cailfamia9040I==2200
SubJeet: Proposed Design Ekements for the quit Center Parks
Dear Ms. ie Blanc:
Thank you very much foryourthoughtfuk ~tterta the Mayor and City Coundi regarding the need to
incorporate seating and other features that provide a variety of optbru for all members of the
Community including seniors. We aho appreciate your comments related to the need for adequate
parking and the concerns that you artkukated regarding the possible confikts between bikes and
pedestriaru within Palisades Garden Waik. I would tike to taketha opportunltyto respond to each of
the concernsthatyou raked.
Seating Areas- Park seating wkii be varied throughout the park and viii include 6uih-in concrete and/or
concrete and wood benches, freestanding chairs with backs as well as seating at picnic tables, on seat
wails and bouldelseating. This variety of seating witl be provided at to address various needs of
Individuab antidpated to rue the park. Arm rest and backs will be h7corporated IMO over 50%of the
seating provided to assure adequate support and comfort. The design has incorporated seating to both
shaded and sunlit areas throughout the parks, with the vast maJarlty of seating located in shaded areas
UghUng-The park design will include a range of pathway and accent tightingto provide ample light for
use of the park in the evening. Ail paths will be lit with pole tights, bollard lighu or at grade lights
assuring night tir7x safety and visibility throughout the park. in addition wail, flee, and otherfeature
accent lighting will provide I~ht in the most alive areas of the park as well ~ areas of special intermit.
Adequate nearby parking-Although the park does not have its own dedicated parking lot, the new
extension of Olympic Drrve South, which will extend alongthe entire southern edge of the park, will
have metered parking spaces on both sides of the street. Although the layout forthese spies has not
keen completed yet, we have calculated the potentiaifor 40 cars to be parked therewhile
acrammodating a mid-block crosswalk extendingfrom the Village Housing development tothe park.
tet: 370 458.8370 • fax: 310 576-1539
Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square Page 2 of 3
Attachment G
Bikes skateboard, roller-blades, Segways inthe park-The park design includes aseries of Bike Bays
around the park perimeter accommodating considerable bike parking and encouraging bike riders to
park their bikes before entering the park. The issue of whether or notto allow community members to
ride bikes and other wheeled devices through this pack wilt need to be considered as part of a broader
policy issue related to balancing the needs of pedestrians with people using wheeled devices.
The park. designers{James Corner Field Operations) are cutrently refining the detail design elements for
the park including lighting and park seating elements. Staff would be delighted to attend a Commission
for the Senior Community meeting to present these details at your regular meeting in June and will work
with your staff liaison to schedule this presentation..
We appreciate your comments and want to assureyou and your fellow commissioners that both the
design team and City staff are committed to make the new park an enjoyable destination for ail ages.
Please do not. hesitate to contact me fiyou have further questionsorcomments.
Sinc r I ,
Karen Ginsberg
Assistant Director
Cc: Richard Bloom, Mayor
City Council Members
BarbaraStinchfield,Director
James Corner, James Corner Field Operations.
Neil Carrey, Chair, Recreation and Park Commission
Design Development for Palisades Garden Walk & Town Square Page 3 of 3
Reference additional
attachment.