Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

Agenda Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Thursday, November 6, 2025, 7:00 p.m. City Hall, Room 122 203 S. Troy Street Royal Oak, Michigan 48067 Anyone planning to attend the meeting who has need of special assistance under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is asked to contact the city clerk’s office at 248-246-3050 at least two (2) business days prior to the meeting. Pages 1. Meeting Called to Order 2. Approval of Agenda 3. Approval of Minutes 3 4. Public Comment 5. Reports a. Staff Report - Nicole McEachern b. City Commission Comments 6. Business a. Gunn Dyer Park Improvements - Nicole McEachern and Joseph Murphy 8 Staff is seeking feedback on the designs for Gunn Dyer Park. Details included in attached memo. Suggested Motion Language - Motion to recommend the City Commission approve the Gunn Dyer Park Improvement Concept Designs as presented. b. Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) - Nicole McEachern 13 Staff is seeking feedback on the Parks and Recreation Capital Improvement Plan. Details included in attached memo. Suggested Motion Language - Motion to recommend the Planning Commission approve proposed Capital Improvement Plan as presented. c. Request to Display Bent Brush - Susan Barkman 23 Details included in attached memo. 7. Items Not on the Agenda  8. Upcoming Events 9. Adjournment 10. Next Meeting: December 4, 2025 Page 2 of 24  Minutes Parks and Recreation Advisory Board October 2, 2025, 7:00 p.m. City Hall Commission Chambers Room 121 203 South Troy Street Royal Oak, MI 48067 Present: Sarah Kindinger Brigitta Burguess Tony Rennpage Hannah Holliday Ryan Danescu Ian McKinney Brandon Kolo Absent: Sue Wells _____________________________________________________________________ 1. Meeting Called to Order Meeting called to order at 7:00 pm. 2. Approval of Agenda Motion to add a public comment to 6 A. Moved by: Ryan Danescu Seconded by: Tony Rennpage Motion Adopted 3. Approval of Minutes Motion to approve the September 4, 2025 Minutes. Moved by: Ryan Danescu Seconded by: Tony Rennpage Motion Adopted 4. Public Comment 1 Page 3 of 24  1. Joe Vukich spoke as fields director for Royal Oak Football Club to bring attention to issues at Normandy Oaks Park soccer fields with condition of the fields. Asked board members to visit the soccer fields. 2. Joe Williams, Royal Oak resident and former Southfield Parks and Recreation employee reported that Normandy Oaks Park suffered grass damage from a fungal disease in May 2022, prompting a soil test that revealed poor soil chemistry. They recommended adding magnesium, conducting regular soil tests at premium fields, and applying fertilizer three to five times annually, while also noting issues with irrigation head placement. The Michigan State Turf Grass Institute was suggested as a helpful resource, and ROYSA was acknowledged for contributing to Quikstad and helping maintain the fields. 5. Reports 5.a Staff Report – Nicole McEachern Administration  We selected Jes Alger as our full-time Parks and Recreation Clerk. Jes will oversee customer service, while supporting a wide range of administrative and programming duties to ensure smooth daily operations. Jes Alger has 15 years of experience in parks and recreation, specializing in aquatics, athletics, and archery. Jes is a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP). She has worked with Parks and Recreation Departments at Oak Park, Independence Township, and West Bloomfield  We have Erin Junge joining our Parks and Recreation team as a new part-time clerk on a temporary basis. Erin will provide additional coverage to the Recreation Counter, answer main line phone calls, and tackle administrative and programming tasks. She will work approximately 20 hours per week. Before relocating to the east side last month, Erin spent nearly three years with the City of Portland as the Recreation Coordinator, where she managed youth and adult sports leagues, oversaw the Daddy Daughter Dance, and contributed to improving program operations and communications. Erin is a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) and holds a Master’s degree in Recreation Management. She is well-versed in RecDesk software.  Doruk Dogan is being promoted from part-time Chef to full-time Senior Center Chef. In this role, Doruk will supervise the Congregate Meal Program, oversee Dinner and Luncheon Events, Cooking Classes, the Community Gardens, Bee Hives, and more. Doruk is ServSafe Food Safety Certified.  Interviews for the Administrative Assistant positions for the Senior Center are underway. 2 Page 4 of 24   Winter Insight publication process is underway. Recreation  Salter Center open pickleball begins the week of Monday, October 20th with options for play M-F. Outdoor pickleball will be closing sometime late October.  We are in final stages of developing an agreement with the YMCA and School District to relaunch aquatics programs. This includes open swim, swim lessons, and water fitness. Our goal is to finalize agreements prior to November.  ROFC Season will wrap up at our parks 11/8.  ROSL beginning to discuss 2026 field use and plans.  Adult leagues: o Softball will run through October, with playoffs to end the season. o Volleyball will run to December, ending before the holidays. o Winter Volleyball season will begin after Jan 1st. Park/Facilities  Senior Center had its grand reopening and ribbon cutting on Friday, September 26.  Salter Center roofing project has been awarded. Project is estimated to be completed in the fall.  Clawson Park Improvements are on track for substantial completion in October.  Red Run Park playground replacement begins Monday, October 6 and is expected to take 3 weeks.  Memorial Park Netting project anticipated to start October 22. 5.b City Commission Comments - Commissioner Kolo  New charging stations are coming to the Senior Center.  The three throne bathrooms have been well received. They cost $6,000 per month.  We have a new DDA Director dedicated to the downtown.  Farmers Market received recognition from the Governor for being 100 years old. 3 Page 5 of 24 6. Business Items 6.a Gunn Dyer Park Improvements and Future CDBG Funded Park Projects Staff is seeking feedback from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board on the 30% design for Gunn Dyer Park. Feedback is also requested from the Board regarding prioritization for future CDBG funded park projects. Details included in attached memo. Staff presented overview of memo. Gunn Dyer Park Feedback: Board members expressed interest in using bid alternates to save costs, especially on concrete alternatives for pathway and reduced parking options. Item will be brought back to the November meeting for further discussion. Public Comment on Gunn Dyer: David Prout, Sandlot League- Fully supports the project for multiple sports and playground use. The park is heavily used up to six days a week but has drainage issues and serves 30 to 35 teams of kids aged 8 and under. John Linz, Royal Oak Football Club - Supports park improvements and sees this as a chance to show commitment to better facilities. Suggests delaying the playground phase due to its high cost. Joe Vukich, Royal Oak Football Club - Notes that third and fourth grade games are 7 versus 7, and fitting an 11 versus 11 field may be difficult due to space needed for corner kicks and out-of-bounds play. Joe Williams, Royal Oak Football Club- Says this is one of the city’s worst drained parks and needs attention. 6.b Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Staff presented overview of projects recommended for 26-27 Fiscal Year. Board members provided the following feedback: Board suggested that Madison Heights would be a good model for a Master Plan Update. 7. Items Not on the Agenda 8. Upcoming Events 9. Adjournment Adjourned 9:15 pm. Resolution Number: Motion to adjourn Moved by: Hannah Holliday Seconded by: Brigitta Burguess 4 Page 6 of 24  Motion Adopted 10. Next Meeting: November 6, 2025 5 Page 7 of 24  Royal Oak Parks and Recreation 203 S Troy Street Royal Oak, MI 48067 248.246.3180 MEMORANDUM DATE: October 28, 2025 TO: Parks and Recreation Advisory Board FROM: Nicole McEachern, Parks and Recreation Director Joseph Murphy, Planning Director SUBJECT: Gunn Dyer Park Improvements Feedback Requested for Gunn Dyer Park Improvements Staff is requesting feedback from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board on the 30% design plans for Gunn Dyer Park. This project is funded through Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. Nowak & Fraus Engineers (NFE) submitted the lowest bid for survey, design, and construction inspection services. At the October 2 Board meeting, staff presented a concept that exceeded the available budget and asked the Board to help identify priorities. Based on that input, staff worked with NFE to develop two revised design options for the Board’s consideration. Both incorporate the ability to safely accommodate U6, U8, U10, or U12 soccer fields along with a U8 ball diamond. The tables below outline the differences between these two concepts. Staff recommends moving forward with the bid process using both options, with specific elements included as bid alternates. A bid alternate is a pricing option in a construction bid that allows the project owner to decide whether to include or exclude certain features. This approach provides flexibility to adjust the project scope based on available funding. Page 8 of 24 Concept A – Estimated $874,000 Proposed walking surfaces are 100% concrete. Larger raised playground. 2 parking areas. Category Description Cost Overall Site Improvements 2 parking areas (grading, base, pavement) $62,000 All walkways incl. concrete path + NE parking $38,000 Site grading with berm $20,000 Baseball Diamond/Fields More pavement (bleacher to parking, 6") $19,000 Playground Improvements Adjacent seating areas – Concrete, 4" $13,000 Machine grading (berm) $0 Larger play area (EWF mulch) $12,000 Railing $2,000 Other Mobilization + Contingency $90,000 Page 9 of 24 Concept B – Estimated $816,000 Less concrete surfacing. Slightly smaller playground. 1 parking area. Category Description Cost Overall Site Improvements 1 parking area (grading, base, pavement) $41,000 All walkways incl. crushed stone pathway $29,000 Site grading – no berm $12,000 Baseball Diamond/Fields Less pavement (bleacher to parking) $13,000 Playground Improvements Adjacent seating areas – Crushed stone $4,500 Machine grading: excavation required $6,000 Smaller play area (EWF mulch) $9,500 No railing $0 Other Mobilization + Contingency $84,000 Page 10 of 24 BACKGROUND Nearly every five years, the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) provides communities across the country with data sets to determine which census block groups within their jurisdiction have a relatively greater percentage of low- to moderate- income residents compared to averages. The data helps determine potential activities that will indirectly benefit those living in qualifying census block groups. On June 6th,2024 HUD released its notice and related data based on the results of the American Community Survey 2016-2020 5-year estimates. A new map illustrates qualifying census block groups. It’s worth noting that prior data was based on the results of comprehensive decennial census efforts. The new data is based on samplings over time, pooled together, weighted, and processed as a whole dataset. In prior years, the city expended Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds on capital improvements within qualifying census block groups. Based on the service area of the activity, it’s presumed under HUD regulations to indirectly benefit all residents living in the qualifying census block group. Area benefit activities have included improvements to public infrastructure like street trees, sidewalks, crosswalks, roads, street lighting, fire hydrants, neighborhood scale park features such as playground equipment, exercise equipment, ball fields, and walking paths, etc. The city’s parks system has been the recipient of CDBG investments. Over the past twelve years, the city commission has authorized $7.2 million of the city’s CDBG funds on park improvements. Parks will undoubtable compete for future CDBG funds. Within the city’s recreation master plan, each of the city’s parks are classified by their size and service area into three primary categories: mini-parks, neighborhood parks, and community parks. Depending on the scale of the park and its amenities, the document outlines the suggested service area below. park type amenity service area mini-park ¼ mile or less neighborhood park ¼ - ½ mile community park ½ - 3 miles Typical park improvements include new or improved playground equipment, fitness equipment, pathways, limited parking, ball fields, tennis courts, drainage improvements, landscaping, etc. These facilities dominate the city’s mini-parks and neighborhood parks. Community scale parks are larger in scale and often include facilities intended to serve a larger population. Their area benefit is designed to serve more than just those living in the immediate neighborhood. Page 11 of 24 Many of park facilities are outdated or deteriorated and need to be replaced. The city’s recreation master plan identifies system-wide and park-specific actions. The document also establishes a goal to increase and diversify access to parks. It recognizes the need to enhance pedestrian and cyclists’ access to the parks and recreation facilities. Federal regulations require that CDBG-funded public facilities and improvements benefit those living in qualified census block groups that are primarily residential in nature. The funded activity must have a service area boundary that does not extend beyond the census block group boundary. In recent past, staff have been asked to research the eligibility of expending CDBG funds on improvements in community scale parks. Representatives from HUD have affirmed various ineligible projects based on the service area of the park. Staff suggest that recommended improvements be limited to known eligible projects. Numerous mini-parks and neighborhood parks are in need of improvements that will benefit those living in the immediate neighborhood. Community scale parks within the qualifying census block groups include Cummingston Park, Memorial Park, Quickstad Park, and Worden Park. Different funding sources should be researched for improvements at these community scale parks. The following parks are geographically located within qualifying census block groups and would have eligible projects based on service area: Neighborhood Parks: Gunn Dyer Park, Miller Park, Upton Park Mini Parks: Westwood Park, Rotary Park Page 12 of 24  Royal Oak Parks and Recreation 203 S Troy Street Royal Oak, MI 48067 248.246.3180 MEMORANDUM DATE: October 27, 2025 TO: Parks & Recreation Advisory Board FROM: Nicole McEachern, Director of Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: Parks & Recreation Capital Improvement Plan 2026-2032 Staff prepared an updated Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) totaling $28.5 million in estimated investments for parks infrastructure. The plan emphasizes rehabilitating and replacing existing infrastructure, driven by aging amenities and limited funding. In short, staff recommend focusing on caring for what we already have. 2026-27 2027-28 2028-29 2029-30 2030-31 2031-32 $ 1,596,000 $2,762,000 $4,670,000 $4,564,000 $6,839,000 $8,060,000 A detailed spreadsheet of proposed park projects is attached. Please note, proposals for recreational facilities are not being presented to the Board at this time. Staff has growing concern over deferred maintenance across the city’s 51 parks and multiple recreation sites. Without intervention, the backlog of repairs could lead to difficult decisions, including the removal of amenities or, in extreme cases, divestment of park land. Page 13 of 24 Suggested motion language No formal action is required from the Advisory Board at this time, though members may choose to pass a motion endorsing the draft CIP. Suggested motion language is provided to facilitate this option. Motion to recommend the Planning Commission approve proposed Capital Improvement Plan as presented. Background The CIP is a strategic planning tool used by city governments to schedule, finance, and implement infrastructure projects over multiple years. While the CIP guides budgeting decisions, it does not determine final budget allocations. Development of the parks and recreation CIP was informed by the Recreation Master Plan and the Sustainability and Climate Action Plan. The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board discussed CIP at their September and October 2025 meetings. The CIP process occurs prior to the operating budget process as the CIP will be used to develop the capital portion of the budget. Approval of the CIP by the Planning Commission does not signify final approval or funding of any project contained within the plan. Rather, by approving a CIP, the Planning Commission acknowledges that they agree that the projects present a reasonable interpretation of the upcoming needs / wants for the city and comply with the City’s master plan. Generally, the projects contained in the first year of the plan will be requested in next year’s department requested budget and potentially advance to the manager’s recommended and/or city commission’s approved budget should funding be available Page 14 of 24 Draft 5 Year CIP Parks and Rec CIP # PROJECT NAME POTENTIAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL NARRATIVE FUNDING YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR SOURCE(S) 2026-27 2027-28 2028-29 2029-30 2030-31 2031-32 CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST Currently the lighting at Memorial Park athletic fields is manually operated, requiring a Parks and Memorial Park staff member to be physically onsite to turn it on and off. The retrofit will allow staff to Parks & Recreation TBD Lighting Controls $ 15,000 create automated schedules and remotely operate the lights through a software Grounds Millage Retrofit application. This will improve overall efficiency and reduce staff labor associated with operating the lights. The Recreation Master Plan highlights the desire for more bicycle infrastructure (racks and repair stations) in city parks to enhance Royal Oak's nonmotorized network. Parks and Bicycle Racks and Priority parks include Wagner, Realtor, Grant, VFW, Lockman, Meininger, Upton, and Parks & Recreation 2026-22 Repair Stations in $ 17,000 Worden East. Department of Public Service staff would install the items. Project would Grounds Millage Parks cover the cost of 4 installations completed in-house. Supports S-CAP Action 2.1.6. Develop and implement a plan to install and maintain municipal bicycle infrastructure community-wide. Parks and Parks & Park Bench/Picnic Recreation This ongoing program aims to replace existing wooden benches/picnic tables in parks 2025-40 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 Grounds Table Replacement Millage with recycled composite benches/picnic tables. The Recreation Master Plan highlights the desire for more water fountains in city parks. Parks and Estimate would cover the cost of 4 installations completed in-house by DPS staff. Parks & Water Fountains in Recreation Prioritization would be for high-use community parks that currently lack water 2024-58 $ 51,000 Grounds Parks Millage fountains: Myron Zucker Park, Quickstad Park, Red Run Park, Starr Jaycee, VFW Park, Wagner Park, or Worden Park. Supports S-CAP Action 4.1. Provide safe, accessible drinking water to all residents. Maddock Park, with the oldest playground equipment in our system dating back to 1994, is a priority candidate for full replacement to meet current safety and accessibility standards. The average lifespan of commercial playground equipment Parks and ranges from 8 to 15 years.These improvements are outlined in the Recreation Master Parks & Maddock Park Recreation TBD $ 53,000 $ 350,000 Plan. The project has opportunity to incorporate sustainable features such as porous Grounds Improvements Millage pavement and recycled materials, supporting S-CAP Actions 5.3.4 and 3.2.1, which promote ecological responsibility and recycling in municipal construction. Design and bid support from an engineering firm will be included in the first fiscal year, with 15% of the budget allocated for professional assistance. Page 15 of 24 Draft 5 Year CIP Parks and Rec CIP # PROJECT NAME POTENTIAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL NARRATIVE FUNDING YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR SOURCE(S) 2026-27 2027-28 2028-29 2029-30 2030-31 2031-32 CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST Lions Club Park, with playground equipment dating back to 1995, is a priority candidate for full replacement to meet current safety and accessibility standards. The swing set was recently removed due to damage during a sewer project. The average lifespan of commercial playground equipment ranges from 8 to 15 years. To improve Parks and pedestrian safety and access, the crossing at Hilldale will be upgraded with a striped Parks & Lions Club Park Recreation crosswalk and ADA-compliant ramp at the park entrance. These proposed changes TBD $ 53,000 $ 350,000 Grounds Improvements Millage were identified in the Recreation Master Plan. The project has opportunity to incorporate sustainable features such as porous pavement and recycled materials, supporting S-CAP Actions 5.3.4 and 3.2.1, which promote ecological responsibility and recycling in municipal construction. Design and bid support from an engineering firm will be included in the first fiscal year, with 15% of the budget allocated for professional assistance. Fernwood Park (1 acre) requires improvements due to outdated facilities. Public input for the Recreation Master Plan identified replacement of the play structure (installed in 1999), maintenance for the sandbox, and additional shade as desired priorities for Parks and this park. The swing set was recently removed due to disrepair. Design and bid Parks & Fernwood Park Recreation 2024-30 $ 90,000 $ 600,000 assistance with an engineering firm would occur in the first fiscal year, with 15% Grounds Improvements Millage included for engineering firm assistance. There is opportunity for pourous pavement and recylced materals for this project to support S-CAP Action 5.3.4. Evaluate the use of ecologically-friendly materials for park play areas, and 3.2.1. Require contractors to include recycling as part of their bids for municipal construction projects. Reconstruction of the existing pickleball courts at Whittier Park is necessary as the lifespan of the courts is expiring. This is a project funded in the current fiscal year and will be carried over to next two fiscal years. Design and bid assistance with an Parks and engineering firm will occur in the first fiscal year, with construction in the second fiscal Parks & Whittier Pickleball Recreation 2024-36 $ 500,000 year, with 15% included for engineering firm assistance. There is opportunity for Grounds Courts Replacement Millage pourous pavement and recylced materals for this project to support S-CAP Action 5.3.4. Evaluate the use of ecologically-friendly materials for park play areas, and 3.2.1. Require contractors to include recycling as part of their bids for municipal construction projects. Located south of 13 Mile and west of Coolidge, Gunn Dyer Park (2.36 acres) is Parks & Gunn Dyer Park CDBG Fund challenged by flooding issues. Feedback in the planning process identified the need 2024-48 $ 750,000 Grounds Improvements for better, accessible access to the soccer field. Play structure was removed for safety concerns. This park is eligible for CDBG funds. Page 16 of 24 Draft 5 Year CIP Parks and Rec CIP # PROJECT NAME POTENTIAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL NARRATIVE FUNDING YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR SOURCE(S) 2026-27 2027-28 2028-29 2029-30 2030-31 2031-32 CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST Located on the city’s north end, Upton Park (3.86 acres) has eight pickleball courts. Parks & Upton Park CDBG Fund The park is challenged by flooding issues and a lack of trees. It was identified as a 2024-45 $ 850,000 Grounds Improvements location for a new pavilion with restrooms. Long-term, the pickleball courts are recommended to be reconstructed. This park is eligible for CDBG funds. The Recreation Master Plan highlights the desire for installation of more permanent restrooms in high trafficked parks. Staff is currently determining which parks make the most sense for restroom additions. Depending on scope, restrooms can cost anywhere from $250,000 to $500,000. Prioritization would be for high-use parks. Design and bid assistance with an engineering firm will occur in the first fiscal year, Parks and with construction in the second fiscal year. The total project cost for one unheated Parks & Recreation 2024-51 Park Restrooms $ 42,000 $ 275,000 $ 44,000 $ 290,000 unisex restroom prefabricated structure with utility connections is estimated at Grounds Millage $287,500, with 15% included for engineering firm assistance. Restrooms will create new ongoing operating costs due to regular cleaning, maintenance, and winterization. Due to funding constraints, we have listed installation of only two restrooms. There is opportunity for pourous pavement and recylced materals for this project to support S- CAP Action 3.2.1. Require contractors to include recycling as part of their bids for municipal construction projects Residents requested parking improvements on E. Parent Avenue for Lawson Park after improvements at Lawson Park have increased traffic to the park. The estimate of General $70,000 provides ten parking spaces in total, with two being accessible. These Parks & Fund/Road 2026-24 Lawson Park Parking $ 70,000 improvements were presented to the Commission on October 28, 2024 and were not Grounds Funds approved for funding at the time. Note that when concepts for Lawson Park improvements were presented to residents several years ago, the neighborhood opposed the installation of a parking area within/around the park. Replace current trails in Cummingston and Tenhave Woods with ADA-compliant trails to enhance accessibility and connection to nature. This project was identified in the Parks and Nature Areas ADA Recreation Master Plan process. Add trail markings, educational signage, and an Parks & Recreation 2024-47 Trails (Cummingston $ 75,000 $ 500,000 accessible paved path connecting to the sidewalk. Design and bid assistance with an Grounds Millage and Tenhave Woods) engineering firm would occur in the first fiscal year, with construction occurring in the second fiscal year for a project totaling $575,000, with 15% included for engineering firm assistance. Page 17 of 24 Draft 5 Year CIP Parks and Rec CIP # PROJECT NAME POTENTIAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL NARRATIVE FUNDING YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR SOURCE(S) 2026-27 2027-28 2028-29 2029-30 2030-31 2031-32 CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST Red Run Park (19.7 acres) requires renovations due to flooding issues and aging amenities. Plans include renovating play structures, athletic fields, and potentially Parks and adding a skate park. Improvements also cover resurfacing ball diamonds, adding Parks & Red Run Park Recreation seating, pathways, parking, and a new pavilion with restrooms, enhancing overall 2026-32 $ 300,000 $ 2,000,000 Grounds Improvements Millage accessibility and recreational options. Design and bid assistance with an engineering firm would occur in the first fiscal year, with construction occurring in the second fiscal year for a project totaling $2,300,000, with 15% included for engineering firm assistance. Maudlin Park, with playground equipment dating back to 1995, is a priority candidate for full replacement to meet current safety and accessibility standards. The average lifespan of commercial playground equipment ranges from 8 to 15 years. Additionally, Parks and the existing path to the play equipment will be renovated and completed to ensure full Parks & Maudlin Park Recreation accessibility for all users. These upgrades are reflected in the Recreation Master Plan. TBD $ 58,000 $ 385,000 Grounds Improvements Millage The project has opportunity to incorporate sustainable features such as porous pavement and recycled materials, supporting S-CAP Actions 5.3.4 and 3.2.1, which promote ecological responsibility and recycling in municipal construction. Design and bid support from an engineering firm will be included in the first fiscal year, with 15% of the budget allocated for professional assistance. Elks Park (4.32 acres), located adjacent to Normandy Oaks, features several sports fields and courts but faces flooding and maintenance challenges. Its location and size offer significant redevelopment potential to complement Normandy Oaks. Public input highlighted the need for new facilities, including a potential skate park. Design Parks and and bid assistance with an engineering firm will occur in the first fiscal year, followed Parks & Elks Park Recreation 2024-38 $ 240,000 $ 1,600,000 $ - by construction in the second fiscal year. The total project cost is estimated at Grounds Improvements Millage $1,840,000, with 15% included for engineering firm assistance.There is opportunity for pourous pavement and recylced materals for this project to support S-CAP Action 5.3.4. Evaluate the use of ecologically-friendly materials for park play areas, and 3.2.1. Require contractors to include recycling as part of their bids for municipal construction projects. Page 18 of 24 Draft 5 Year CIP Parks and Rec CIP # PROJECT NAME POTENTIAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL NARRATIVE FUNDING YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR SOURCE(S) 2026-27 2027-28 2028-29 2029-30 2030-31 2031-32 CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST Although Royal Oak has 25 tennis courts, the National Recreation and Park Association suggests 9 for our population size. The Recreation Master Plan advises repurposing underutilized and severely damaged courts for green space or other facilities, recommending the decommissioning of 5-7 tennis courts in disrepair. Tennis Court Parks & Possible replacement could include conversion to courts lined for both tennis and 2026-33 Removals/Replaceme Risk Fund $ 500,000 $ 500,000 Grounds pickleball. Tennis Courts located at Red Run and Meininger are in the worst condition nts and are recommended for removal in other CIP projects. Elks, Dondero, Myron Zucker, and Kenwood are in poor condition and should be prioritized for replacement or removal. The average lifespan of an outdoor tennis court in Michigan is below 20 years due to the climate. Westwood Park (1.03 acres) offers two swing sets, two play structures, and a multipurpose field. It is near William Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak and the Berkley Parks & Westwood Park CDBG Fund 2024-55 $ 750,000 border. The park is challenged by outdated play equipment and the field requires Grounds Improvements maintenance. The spiral slide at Westwood is damaged and closed off for safety reasons. This park is eligible for CDBG funds. Mark Twain Park (7.18 acres), the only dog park in the northwest corner of the city, charges $40 for residents and $65 for non-residents. Membership covers fence/gate maintenance, waste management, and landscaping. Potential improvements identified in the Recreation Master Plan include a shade structure, paved pathway, Parks and rain garden, and drainage enhancements. Design and bid assistance with an Parks & Mark Twain Dog Park Recreation 2024-56 $ 75,000 $ 500,000 engineering firm would occur in the first fiscal year, with construction occurring in the Grounds Improvements Millage second fiscal year for a project totaling $575,000 with 15% included for engineering firm assistance. There is opportunity for pourous pavement and recylced materals for this project to support S-CAP Action 5.3.4. Evaluate the use of ecologically-friendly materials for park play areas, and 3.2.1. Require contractors to include recycling as part of their bids for municipal construction projects Artificial turf was installed in 2021 at Field #3. The expected lifespan is 8 to 15 years, Parks and depending on factors like the quality of the turf, usage frequency, and how well it is Memorial Park Athletic Parks & Recreation maintained. The turf will need to be replaced as soon as 2029 or as late as 2036 2024-46 Turf Replacement, $ 400,000 Grounds Millage depending on condition. The Joint Operating Agreement with Michigan Red Sox Inc Field #3 established a refurbishment fund whereby a portion of each year's rental revenue is deposited to prepare for Field #3 turf replacement. Page 19 of 24 Draft 5 Year CIP Parks and Rec CIP # PROJECT NAME POTENTIAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL NARRATIVE FUNDING YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR SOURCE(S) 2026-27 2027-28 2028-29 2029-30 2030-31 2031-32 CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST Rotary Park (0.8 acres) is located directly south of the Royal Oak Golf Course at 13 Parks & Rotary Park CDBG Fund Mile Road between Coolidge and Crooks. Surrounded by nearby apartment buildings, 2024-35 $ 500,000 Grounds Improvements the park has no built amenities but offers a future opportunity for seating or public art. This park is eligible for CDBG funds. Miller Park (1.51 acres) is located within walking distance of William Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, near Coolidge and 13 Mile. The park has playground equipment Parks & Miller Park CDBG Fund 2024-32 $ 750,000 $ - and a multipurpose field. It was identified as a location for adult exercise equipment. Grounds Improvements The play structure has been updated within the last 10 years. This park is eligible for CDBG funds. Maudlin Park, with playground equipment dating back to 1997, is a priority candidate for full replacement to meet current safety and accessibility standards. The average lifespan of commercial playground equipment ranges from 8 to 15 years. The project Parks and has opportunity to incorporate sustainable features such as porous pavement and Parks & Marks Park Recreation recycled materials, supporting S-CAP Actions 5.3.4 and 3.2.1, which promote TBD $ 61,000 $ 405,000 Grounds Improvements Millage ecological responsibility and recycling in municipal construction. Design and bid support from an engineering firm will be included in the first fiscal year, with 15% of the budget allocated for professional assistance.Design and bid support from an engineering firm will be included in the first fiscal year, with 15% of the budget allocated for professional assistance. Adding lights to soccer fields at Quickstad Park extends playtime into the evening, increasing usage and accessibility. It supports evening practices and games, Parks and enhancing the park’s utility and accommodating community schedules. Lighting also Parks & Quickstad Park Soccer Recreation 2024-49 $ 90,000 $ 600,000 improves safety and visibility, creating a welcoming environment for all users. Design Grounds Field Lights Millage and bid assistance with an engineering firm would occur in the first fiscal year, with construction occurring in the second fiscal year for a project totaling $690,000, with 15% included for engineering firm assistance. Wagner Park (14.09 acres) offers picnic areas, playgrounds and an 18-hole disc golf Parks and course, all shaded by a significant mature tree canopy. Potential improvements Parks & Wagner Park Recreation include new pathways and updates to the disc golf course. Installed in 2015, the play 2026-23 $ 128,000 $ 850,000 Grounds Improvements Millage structure is will be nearing replacement age by 2030. Design and bid assistance with an engineering firm will occur in the first fiscal year (estimated 15% of total cost), with construction in the second fiscal year. Page 20 of 24 Draft 5 Year CIP Parks and Rec CIP # PROJECT NAME POTENTIAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL NARRATIVE FUNDING YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR SOURCE(S) 2026-27 2027-28 2028-29 2029-30 2030-31 2031-32 CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST Isabel & Myron Zucker Park (formerly Exchange Park) (14.49 acres), located in the city's northeast corner, offers various active recreation facilities, including one of Royal Oak's ten basketball courts. The park faces flooding and maintenance issues. Public input in the Recreation Master Plan highlighted the need for maintenance, new Parks and facilities, and flood mitigation. Design and bid assistance with an engineering firm will Parks & Isabel & Myron Zucker Recreation 2024-52 $ 300,000 $ 2,000,000 occur in the first fiscal year, with construction in the second fiscal year. The total Grounds Park Improvements Millage project cost is estimated at $2,300,000, with 15% included for engineering firm assistance. There is opportunity for pourous pavement and recylced materals for this project to support S-CAP Action 5.3.4. Evaluate the use of ecologically-friendly materials for park play areas, and 3.2.1. Require contractors to include recycling as part of their bids for municipal construction projects Memorial Park (18.35 acres) is a community park and features three ball fields, play structure, and one of five reservable picnic pavilions. Potential improvements include ADA-accessible bleachers, expanded seating, artificial turf for Fields #1 and #2, accessible paths, redeveloped restrooms, roofing replacement, updated press box, Parks and storage facility improvements, new locker rooms, replacing nonfunctional Parks & Memorial Park Recreation scoreboards, and updated play structure. Design and bid assistance with an 2025-25 $ 450,000 $ 3,000,000 Grounds Improvements Millage engineering firm will occur in the first fiscal year, followed by construction in the second fiscal year. The total project cost is estimated at $3,450,000, with 15% included for engineering firm assistance. Improvements at Memorial Park were given a lower priority by the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board because the park has already seen substantial recent investments. Artificial turf was installed in 2021 in Field #3 and replacement for the turf is listed in a separate CIP. Identified as a priority in the Recreation Master Plan, ADA-compliant crosswalks are Major and crucial for ensuring safe park access for all, including people with disabilities. They Parks & Crosswalks for Safe Local Roads 2026-18 $ 500,000 provide an inclusive environment, promoting equal access and mobility, while also Grounds Access to Parks Fund enhancing overall safety for pedestrians. Barton Park North, Dondero, Optimist Park, Huntington Woods Park were all identified as possible locations for new crosswalks. Page 21 of 24 Draft 5 Year CIP Parks and Rec CIP # PROJECT NAME POTENTIAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL FISCAL NARRATIVE FUNDING YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR YEAR SOURCE(S) 2026-27 2027-28 2028-29 2029-30 2030-31 2031-32 CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST CITY COST Based on public input during Recreation Master Plan process, upgrades at Worden Park (22.67 acres) could include "clovering" ball diamonds for better use of soccer, lacrosse, and football fields, connecting paths with fitness amenities, lighting Parks and upgrades. This is our third largest park and is adjacent to the high school. The park Parks & Worden Park Recreation 2026-20 $ 675,000 $ 4,500,000 offers baseball, tennis, ice skating, and potential for a community garden, roller Grounds Improvements Millage hockey rink, or skate park. Design and bid assistance with an engineering firm will occur in the first fiscal year, with construction in the second fiscal year. The total project cost is estimated at $5,175,000, with 15% included for engineering firm assistance. Providing Wi-Fi in public parks enhances accessibility, encourages more visitors, and Parks and supports digital inclusion. It enables people to stay connected while enjoying outdoor Parks & Recreation 2024-54 Park Connectivity $ 1,000,000 spaces, making parks more versatile for work, education, and recreation, and Grounds Millage fostering community engagement. The focus should be on high volume parks, such as Starr Jaycee, VFW, Centennial and Normandy Oaks Parks. The current Master Plan (2023-2027) will be succeeded by the 2028-2032 Plan. A Parks and consultant will be engaged in fiscal year 2026-2027, with adoption by December 2027. Parks and Recreation Recreation This Plan outlines future operations, maintenance, and enhancements for Royal Oak’s 2026-35 Study $ 47,000 $ 47,000 5 Year Master Plan Millage parks and recreation facilities. It also forms the basis for grant funding from MDNR and other agencies. Consultant work spans two fiscal years, totaling approximately $90,000. During the Recreation Master Plan process, public input identified a desire for an Parks and additional dog park serving the southern area of the city. Dog parks were historically Feasibility Study for Recreation 2026-7 Study $ 55,000 located in Meininger and Lockman but are no longer operated due to operational Additional Dog Park Millage challenges. It is recommended to engage a consultant to evaluate the feasibility and desirability of adding an additional dog park. Parks and The Recreation Master Plan identified a need for cultural programming, such as Feasibility Study for Recreation outdoor concerts. While some parks can temporarily host these activities, no 2026-35 Study $ 55,000 Outdoor Amphitheater Millage permanent facility exists. Conduct a feasibility and locational study for constructing an outdoor amphitheater to meet this demand. During the Recreation Master Plan process, residents and stakeholders expressed a Parks and strong desire for a community pool and an indoor recreation facility. To address this, Feasibility Study for Recreation conduct a feasibility study for the pool, potentially collocated with a new community 2026-21 Study Community Center $ 75,000 Millage center. This includes investigating public/private partnerships, determining priority with Indoor Pool within city needs, identifying the best accessible location, and developing a conceptual site plan, and cost estimates for financing and development. Page 22 of 24  Office of the City Manager 203 South Troy Street Royal Oak, MI 48067 www.romi.gov Request to Display Bent Brush by Richard Gage Members of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board: Local artist Richard Gage has reached out to the us to see if Royal Oak would be interested in displaying the piece Bent Brush as a long term installation. He is interested in getting the piece displayed but not planning to sell it, nor does he want to see it to the city. You can get a sense of the scale of this piece https://youtu.be/uMON-KH_l_w?si=RR-O2KvlJYWk6g8D The Commission for the Arts heard about the piece and is supportive of displaying it perhaps in a park location. Staff suggested Barton Park South as a potential location as it is noted in the Parks Master Plan that an art installation would be good in that area. The board is open to other locations as well. Staff thought about Pat Paruch Park. Pat was a long-term Commission representative on the Commission for the Arts. The piece that is currently located in the park is placed through the Art Explored program, so it is not necessarily a long-term piece. Staff would like to get feedback from the Parks and Recreation board to see if you are agreeable to Barton Park (shown below for reference) or another park location. Page 23 of 24 If agreeable, we would begin working on specific site location and a contract with the artist and putting the item before the City Commission for approval. Susan Barkman Deputy City Manager Page 24 of 24