Title
Resolution to Approve a Grant Application to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Grants Management for Universal Access Improvements at Argo Livery
Memorandum
Attached for your review and action is a resolution approving the submission of a grant application to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Grants Management (MDNRGM) for improving universal access at the Argo Livery.
The City of Ann Arbor liveries at Argo and Gallup Parks are the busiest and largest in the state. They are also part of the Huron River Water Trail, a 104-mile inland paddling trail that was the first state designated water trail, and one of two National Water Trails in Michigan designated by the National Park Service. The water trail is part of a coalition of multiple partners led by the Huron River Watershed Council (HRWC).
The concept of Universal Design or Universal Access is that environments should be designed to make them accessible to all people, regardless of age, disability or other factors. Gallup Livery added an accessible “EZ Launch” in 2014 and it has provided access to the water for those with mobility limitations. It is also used by groups from the University of Michigan and Veterans Administration rehabilitation departments.
Parks & Recreation Services is fortunate to have the HRWC as a partner in this project. HRWC is promoting universal access through the Huron River Water Trail and Argo is one of several sites currently under development. The HRWC has committed to fundraising toward the construction of an accessible EZ Launch at Argo Livery. This would provide an accessible paddling route between the Argo and Gallup liveries.
One of the main goals identified in the current Parks and Recreation Open Space Plan is to “ensure that the park system is comprehensive, inclusive, and engaging”. To do so the plan focuses on “providing opportunities for all” and says that “engaging the full diversity of the community is a core value developed by staff, and a goal of the Sustainability Framework Plan and of the city’s organizational strategic plan.” One of the objectives is to “Renovate and maintain parks and facilities so that they comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, while striving for Universal Accessibility.” Additionally, the project meets the sustainability goal of promoting active living & learning by providing recreational opportunities the improve quality of life for all members of our community.
The preliminary concept for improving Universal Access at Argo includes the addition of an accessible watercraft launch, accessible pathways, an accessible picnic area, paving a parking lot and providing ADA parking spaces, and renovations and an addition to the restrooms to make them accessible. Other site improvements include using green infrastructure such as bioswales and rain gardens to manage stormwater runoff on site.
Budget Impact: Funding in the amount of $300,000.00 is available in the approved FY2019 Parks Capital budget. The preliminary budget estimate for the project is $500,000.00 and includes design, equipment, construction, and landscaping. Construction on the livery could commence in 2020, after the summer season.
A public meeting was held on February 21st regarding the improvements and attendees were in favor of the project. Park staff have reached out to the Center for Independent Living and the Commission on Disability Issues and will continue to work with both organizations throughout the project. The Park Advisory Commission unanimously recommended applying for the grant at their February 26, 2019 meeting.
Staff
Prepared by: Hillary Hanzel, Parks Planner
Reviewed by: Derek Delacourt, Community Services Area Administrator
Approved by: Howard S. Lazarus, City Administrator
Body
Whereas, The City park system does not have an accessible watercraft launch at Argo Livery;
Whereas, The Argo and Gallup liveries are the largest in the state and part of the regional Huron River Water Trail;
Whereas, The Park and Recreation Open Space Plan identifies an area of focus as renovating parks and facilities so that they comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, while striving for Universal Accessibility.
Whereas, The Argo livery site and restrooms are in need of renovation;
Whereas, The Huron River Watershed Council has committed to fundraising for an accessible launch;
Whereas, The City commitment to the project is $300,000.00 with funds available in the approved Park Maintenance and Capital Improvement Millage FY19 budget;
Whereas, Grants are available through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Grants Management to assist in funding improvements such as this project; and
Whereas, The Park Advisory Commission unanimously recommended applying for this grant at their February 26, 2019 meeting;
RESOLVED, That City Council directs the City Administrator to apply to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Grants Management for improving Universal Accessibility at Argo Livery and authorizes the City Administrator to execute all documents required for or incidental to the application process.