Facility Master Plan Update

Transcription

WakeMed Soccer Park
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FOR
THE TOWN OF CARY
PARKS, RECREATION, & CULTURAL
RESOURCES DEPARTMENT
BY
INTEGRATED DESIGN, PA
ARCHITECTS • ENGINEERS • PLANNERS
August 2010
WakeMed Soccer Park
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Acknowledgements
Town Council
Ervin Portman, "At-Large" Representative
Gale Adcock, District "D" Representative
Harold Weinbrecht, "Mayor"
Jennifer Robinson, District "A" Representative
Jack Smith, District "C" Representative
Julie Aberg Robison, Mayor Pro Tem, "At-Large" Representative
Don Frantz, District "B" Representative
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Advisory Board
Jeff Boucher
Robert Bush
Sal Cammarata
Susan Davenport
Dennis Hoadley – Chair
Ed Langan
David Lindquist
Tullie Johnson
Neema Patel
Kay Struffolino
Athletics Committee
Ed Langan
Andy Mcree
Jeffrey Trendel
Thomas Griffin
Walker Reagan
Randall Bennett
Pete Burke
King Prather
Larry Miller
Ken Berry
Christine Nacewicz, Teen Representative
Caycee Dorrier, Teen Representative
Town of Cary Staff
Mary Henderson, Director, PRCR
Doug McRainey, Parks Planning Manager, PRCR
William Davis, Athletics Manager, PRCR
Paul Kuhn, Senior Parks Planner, PRCR
Keith Jenkins, Facility Manager, PRCR
David Crotts, Assistant Facility Manager, PRCR
Larry Dempsey, Facilities Division Manager, PW
James Walters, Facilities District Coordinator, PW
WakeMed Soccer Park
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Table of Contents
I
Executive Summary……………………………..Page 4
II
Project Overview…………………………………Page 5
III
Soccer Park History……………………………...Page 6
IV
User Group Data Collection……………………..Page 10
A Town of Cary SWOT Analysis
B Invited User Group Forum
C Group Meetings
V
Data Analysis Narrative………………………….Page 21
A WakeMed Soccer Stadium
B Koka Booth Stadium
C Park Fields
D Park and Cross Country
E Parking and Circulation
F Future Stadium
VI
Implementation and Cost Estimate……………..Page 42
Appendix
A1 – User Group Meeting 3.19.09
A2 – Survey Results
A3 – Interview Notes
A4 – Meeting minutes – Athletic Committee
A5 – Meeting minutes – PRCR Advisory Board
A6 - WakeMed Soccer Park Stadium Graphics
WakeMed Soccer Park
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I.
Executive Summary
To ensure WakeMed Soccer Park continued role as a premier soccer park and to
meet its new role as a community park an updated Master Plan was developed
for the facility. This Master Plan will guide the Town of Cary into the future to
ensure it can continue to serve the community needs. Premier events such as
the RailHawk’s, ACC & NCAA Tournaments, regional cross-country events all
the way to local youth events will continue to be hosted at this facility with the
implementation of this plan.
Listed below is a summary of the recommendations for the facility to be
implemented based on current user groups feedback:
A. WakeMed Soccer Stadium
1. Expand stadium capacity to 15,000 seats, improve seating quality
2. Upgrade existing concessions
3. Install video boards
4. Develop new team room facility with multi-purpose space
5. Construct administrative offices with meeting space
6. Upgrade field lighting
B. Koka Booth Stadium
1. Improve field lighting/electrical system
2. Expand seating to 1,500 seats
3. Develop new press box
4. Provide video board - portable
C. Park Fields
1. Install artificial turf field conversions (fields 4,5 & 8) with lights
2. Develop new irrigation pond & continue water stewardship
3. Provide a shelter for fields 4, 5 & 8
D. Park and Cross Country Course
1. Expansion of Cross Country Course
2. Install shelter with restroom near fields 6 & 7
3. Add park comforts – wireless access, play area & public art
4. Expand maintenance facility
5. Increase signage
E. Parking & Circulation
1. Pave parking lot between fields 6 & 7
2. Develop a new parking lot on south side of WakeMed Soccer Stadium
3. Upgrade circulation between WakeMed Soccer Stadium and Fields 6 & 7
4. Close south loop of existing road near stadium entrance
5. Extend Trinity Road
6. Improve pedestrian circulation and Walnut creek Greenway
Improvements
7. Land expansion/future development
F. Future Stadium
1. Construct a 25,000 capacity stadium
WakeMed Soccer Park
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II.
Project Overview
WakeMed Soccer Park is a 158 acre facility located in the Town of Cary that was
originally completed in May 2002 as a regional soccer competition facility and
home to the WUSA professional soccer team, the Carolina Courage.
In 2004, the Town of Cary assumed management and operational responsibilities
for the park. Since this time, the facility has begun a dual role as a community
park as well as its original role as a premier soccer center.
Today the Park is more accessible to local sports groups and near-by schools as
well as the home of the Carolina Railhawks, a USL Division 1 men’s professional
soccer team.
During the past five years, under the direction of the Town of Cary Parks,
Recreation, & Cultural Resources Department, the Park has increased the
variety of user groups as well as increased the number of high caliber soccer
events. As use of the Park has grown, the department has commissioned a
Facility Master Plan update to reflect the changing needs of the Park and shape
its future growth.
In November 2008, the architects, engineers, and planners of Integrated Design,
PA began work on updating the Facility Master Plan. Integrated Design was the
Designer of Record for the original facility and prepared a Master Plan during the
initial planning of the Park.
The objectives of the Facility Master Plan Update include:

To update the WakeMed Soccer Park Facility Master Plan based on the
Town of Cary’s current facility management and operating goals.

To develop a facility that is both a national soccer venue as well as a
community-based sports park accessible to local sports groups.

To define the ultimate scope and scale of the existing stadium in terms of
seating capacity, seating types, and support facilities.

To analyze both current and future circulation for accessing and exiting
events. This analysis will include a review of the impact of the Trinity
Road extension through the facility.

To analyze all remaining undeveloped land area within the soccer park to
maximize use of entire facility.

To develop a priority list, estimated cost, and schedule of capital projects
necessary to achieve the updated Master Plan.
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III. Soccer Park History
Under the leadership of Cary Mayor,
Koka Booth, a state owned property at
the edge of the town was identified as
a suitable site for a Soccer Park.
Working through Wake County using
the Inter-Local Agreement funded by
hotel, motel, and prepared food tax,
Phase IA (See Graphic) of the Soccer
Park was put into motion. This phase
included a 3,000 seat stadium, 5
Competition Soccer Fields, 3
Buildings, and parking for over 1,000
automobiles.
In the quest for a WUSA team, Wake
County increased the scope and
budget of the park (again using
funding from the Inter-Local
Agreement) to build Phase IB (See
Graphic) as part of the initial park
completion. This phase increased the
stadium to 5,000 seats, added two
additional Competition Soccer Fields,
increased the building amenities, and
added parking to accommodate over
1,800 automobiles.
Early Schematic of the Park (1998)
During construction, the Soccer Park became the new home of the WUSA team,
the Carolina Courage. Team owners of the Carolina Courage provided the
funding for Phase IC, which increased the stadium to 7,000 spectators, an
addition to Building A for the Team’s use, and an increase in the parking capacity
to over 2,600 automobiles.
Final construction on the Soccer Park’s initial phases was May 2002.
In 2001 a Master Plan was completed (See Graphic) based on the Phase 1A, 1B
& 1C and included a 25,000 seat stadium and support facilities. The 2001
Master Plan is the starting point for this current Master Plan.
WakeMed Soccer Park
State Capital Soccer Park – Phase IA
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WakeMed Soccer Park
State Capital Soccer Park – Phase IB
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WakeMed Soccer Park
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State Capital Soccer Park – 2001 Master Plan
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IV. User Group Data Collection
In accordance with the Town of Cary’s WakeMed Soccer Park Business Plan
(May 2009), the Town of Cary and Integrated Design collected input from the
sports community. The purpose of collecting data from current user groups is to
assist in determining planning for Capital needs and programming options.
In collecting data from the current users of the Soccer Park, Integrated Design
used three different sources of information. The first was a SWOT Analysis
(Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) of the park conducted
previously by the town staff. The second source was a invited user group forum
with various community groups conducted at the Town of Cary’s Bond Park
Community Center on March 19, 2009. The third source of information was a
series of small group meetings and conference calls with major users of the park.
A.
Town of Cary SWOT Analysis
Prior to the WakeMed Soccer Park Facility Master Plan Update, the Town of
Cary staff conducted a SWOT Analysis (Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities,
Threats). The first analysis was compiled from input by Town staff members.
The second analysis was compiled from input provided by staff members for the
Carolina Railhawks and the third analysis was compiled from input provided from
representatives of a number of the user groups that regularly rent the soccer
fields as representatives of the soccer playing community. The following is the
compiled lists:
Town Staff SWOT
Strengths
 Stadium Quality
 Athletic Field Turf Quality
 Professional Team Tenant
 Seating Size of Stadium
 Geographic Location
 Cross Country Course
 Number of Fields (allows multiuse)
 Event Reputation
 Huge Success of CASL
 Design
 Naming Rights
 Partners
Weaknesses
 Ingress/Egress
 Parking for Capacity
 Can’t Host Large Tournaments
 Lack of Skyboxes
 Programming
 Lack of Lighting on Practice Fields
 Lack of Artificial Turf
 Capital Needs:
 Concessions
 Locker Rooms
 Meeting Space
 Marketing
 Design – Multiple Concurrent Uses
WakeMed Soccer Park
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Town Staff SWOT
Strengths
 Park Logo
 Town’s Investment
Opportunities
 Expansion Options
 Facility Improvements
 Stadium
 Fields
 Cross Country
 NCAA Championship City
 Working with CASL and other
Orgs.
 Programming
 Balancing Use vs. Maintenance
 Community Support
 Lacross
 Cultivating Spectators
 Branding
 Master Plan
 Academy Programs
Weaknesses
 Soccer Only Perception
 Capturing Cross Country Revenue
 Signage
 Finding Spectators for Events
 Threats
 Size of Stadium
 Competition from Comparable
Facilities
 Retaining Pro Tenant
 Balance Maintenance vs. Use
 Sustainability
 Political Support
 Economy
 More Things to Do – Competition for
People’s Time
User Groups SWOT
Strengths
Weaknesses
 Quality of Fields, especially 6 & 7
 Field Numbering System does not
make sense
 Master Scheduling Process
(although maybe should change
 Not always parking access for Fields
from June to June)
6&7
 Maintenance Schedule
 Locker Room Facilities (lack of) for
Field 2
 Overall running of the park is
better than it has been
 Lack of PA system for Field 2
 Communicating the philosophy /
 Closing for Over-seeding
operating plan has improved
 Communication for Game Times
 Accessibility
 Flexibility with parents/siblings
utilizing open fields while waiting for
 Mid-week games on Field #2
team (not allowed)
 Weather Update earlier – now is 1
hour prior, in many cases teams &
opponents coming from a couple
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User Groups SWOT
Strengths
Opportunities
 More Lights
 Turf Fields
 Small Size Fields
 More Play on Field 3
 Additional Locker Rooms
 Additional Fields
 More Ball Netting on Fields 4, 5, &
8
 Open Restrooms on east side of
Stadium for Fields 6 & 7
 Port-A-Johns
 Scheduling done more
consistently, keep the same
groups on the same fields
 Add 6K course to Cross Country
(Women’s Collegiate Distance)
 Add 8K course to Cross Country
(Men’s Collegiate Distance)
Weaknesses
hours away and need to know earlier
Threats
 Concessions
 Large Crowd Ingress/Egress
 Stadium Map and Way-finding
Signage
 Lack of Video Board
 Number on Seats in Section 200
Worn Off
 Goals Outdated
 Lack of Team Benches
 Lack of Luxury Suites
 Lack of Covered Seats
 Planning – both short and long term
 Too muck talking, not enough followup and implementation (capital
items)
 Need additional end zone seating
 Educating Stakeholders on
Economic Opportunity
 Increase in Number of User Groups
(Lack of Space)
 Groups from outside Cary wanting
space
 Lack of Funding for Improvements
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Carolina Railhawks SWOT
Strengths
Weaknesses
 Stadium

 Signage Opportunities
 Field Conditions
 Maintenance Staff
 Number of Fields
Opportunities
Threats
 Concessions
 PDL Team operated by another
group
 Permanent Signage Opportunities
 Railhawks staff members don’t
 Stadium Map
understand the process to get Town
 Permanent Marquee Sign at Road
authorization and funding to make
 Video Board
capital changes to stadium
 TV Cameras Pointing toward
 If certain changes don’t happen,
Press Box
team may not be able to survive
 Canopy for Patrons in Bleachers
financially
 Upgrade the Entertainment Value
of Stadium
 Economic Opportunity for Town of
Cary Entertainment for the Town
B.
Invited User Group Forum
In March 2009, Integrated Design conducted a user group forum inviting the
Park’s user groups to meet with the design team and the Town staff to discuss
updating the Master Plan.
The purpose of the forum was to bring the user groups together to continue
conversations and to shape the future of the park. The user groups were
introduced to the Master Plan Update with a brief history of the Soccer Park by
Integrated Design with a charge: continue park improvement, be responsible
stewards of tax money, and continue a great place for Wake County citizens.
The users were broken up into small groups to discuss their needs and
opportunities they foresee. The groups saw the strengths of the park being the
quality and location of the facility and the cooperative staff running the facility.
They appreciated the lighted fields (when available) and the Cross Country
Course. They noted that the Cross Country Course is one of the few of this
caliber around (others being in Greensboro and Charlotte), and that it was very
affordable. Representatives from the Senior Games stated that the Soccer
Stadium was very appropriate for their needs.
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For improvements to the Park, the user groups listed that a restroom and shelter
were needed for Fields 6 & 7. Potable water in this area would also improve the
Cross Country Course experience. They expressed a need for more fields
(multi-purpose and small sized fields) and that they would like lights on the fields.
Many expressed a strong interest in artificial turf fields to increase playing time.
They saw the addition of park land as a way to accommodate this growth.
Integrated Design also asked these groups to comment on the experiences at
the Soccer Stadium, which few use for their own groups. Generally, the
comments were very positive although the expressed a desire to see an
improvement in the concessions. They thought it could use additional seating
and the pedestrian connection between the two sides of the stadium should be
improved. Automobile egress out of the park was a stated weakness.
Other ideas that came out of the forum were a desire for the area to build an
Indoor Track Facility. The region currently does not have one nearby. The
facility would ideally have 5 to 6 lanes in a 200 meter oval.
Together, Integrated Design and the Town of Cary staff prepared a
Questionnaire for participants in the Public Forum. The tallied results of the
questionnaire represent fifteen user groups:















Carolina Copper Heads
Carolina Soccer Club
Cary High School
Meredith College Soccer
Meredith College Cross Country
NC Adult Soccer Association
NC High School Athletic Association
NC Senior Games
NC State Cross Country
Peace College Soccer
St. Timothy’s School
Triangle Flying Disc
Triangle Futbol
UNC Soccer
Cary Academy Cross Country
The first section of the questionnaire was a list of areas in the Park to rate their
quality. The responses indicated a high rating for the amount and location of
parking. Nearly all groups gave an extremely high rating for the quality of the
playing fields, with the exception of the small field (Field 8). The groups gave
high ratings for both the quality of lights on Fields 2 & 3 and the cleanliness of the
restroom facilities. Poor ratings were given to the quality of food served in the
concessions.
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The second section of the survey listed a number of items mentioned in the
SWOT Analysis and soccer group participants were asked to rate the importance
of each of these items. Of highest importance to all of the user groups was the
quality of the playing surfaces. This was followed by having restroom facilities
and parking in close proximity to the fields.
Other items given some importance were having lights for the practice fields and
permanent seating. Items listed of less importance were scoreboards (for
practice fields), concessions (for practice fields), and “other (non-specific)
support facilities.”
The survey also included a section specifically addressing the Cross Country
Course. Of most important to the user groups is the quality of the running
surface, the course signage, and a permanently defined start and finish area.
Other items that ranked very high were a group of possible improvements to the
course: restrooms in close proximity, a sound system, and parking in close
proximity. Items that were indicated to be of less importance were a running
clock, seating, and a concession stand.
The final section of the questionnaire asked the user groups to rate the
importance of potential facility improvements. The highest response was for
additional restrooms for fields away from the stadium. This was closely followed
by picnic shelters. Also rated high in importance was better internal signage and
concession stands. Items falling in the middle included additional meeting space,
conversion of natural fields, and additional lighted fields. Items having lower
rating score were additional safety lighting at night, additional fields, scoreboards
for practice fields, and finally additional park amenities such as a playground.
Although additional fields and lighted fields received relatively low scores as a
total, many of the groups rated these to be of the highest importance.
C.
Group Meetings
During March and April 2009, Integrated Design with the Town of Cary staff
conducted several small group meetings or conference calls with major repeat
user groups of the park.
Local Soccer
The first small group meeting was with local soccer groups CASL and Triangle
Futbol. Generally, these groups have some games on Field 2 and practice on
Fields 4, 5, 6, and 7.
The clubs felt that the parking at the facility was adequate for their needs but
offered suggestions for improvements to both the park in general and Koka
Booth Stadium (Field 2).
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For the park, the soccer clubs both expressed an interest in having toilets near
Fields 6 and 7. Each group of fields should have a covered structure that would
serve as an area of safety during storms and give a place where parents and
siblings could view games and practice. An idea that had not been expressed
before was wireless internet access at these structures so that parents could
work or kids could do homework. There was a strong feeling that parents and
siblings need to be by the fields and the groups had absolutely no interest in
playgrounds. They felt the playgrounds presented a liability and parents needed
to be watching the soccer rather than off watching other kids. The Town of Cary
noted that other user groups have expressed an opposing opinion regarding
playgrounds at the park.
As for the fields, the clubs thought that at least two fields should be converted to
artificial turf to gain more playing time. Fields 4 and 5 seemed to be the best
candidates. The groups liked to train on artificial turf, but still preferred playing
games on natural grass. Field lighting should accompany any turf conversion,
but they expressed that investing in field lighting was not worth the money for a
natural grass field. It was suggested that more netting would help many of the
fields with their wear areas and smaller goals be made available for younger
groups. Permanent seating for practice fields was helpful as long as it did not
affect the size of the fields or the ability for fields to shift around to avoid wear
areas. There was not much interest in scoreboards for practice fields.
Koka Booth Stadium (Field 2) has improved with seating, but additional seats
could be added. Both clubs feel that the level of lighting on Field 2 could be
improved. Two locker rooms are important additions to this field. The locker
rooms do not have to be full locker rooms with showers, but more just open
rooms for changing and meeting along with toilets. Concessions serving the
stadium need to be upgraded to be able to cook foods. Additional drink stands
could serve the stadium.
To liven up the park, the clubs wouldn’t mind seeing club signs around the park
identifying the groups that play regularly. They also expressed an interest in a
“photo op. spot.” The current public art in the park is too tall to be a backdrop for
group pictures. The concrete soccer ball is closer, but not ideal because it could
be larger.
Professional Soccer
The WakeMed Soccer Stadium is the home of the professional soccer team, the
Carolina Railhawks since 2007. During the information gathering phase of the
Facility Master Plan Update, Integrated Design conducted two separate meetings
with the Railhawks. A different member of Railhawks ownership attended each
meeting.
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While the owners expressed difference in each other’s opinions about stadium
seating, both agreed that the item to correct was the state of the concessions.
The concessions need cooking abilities to sell items other than pre-packaged
foods.
Another item of high importance is a Video Board. The PA system is out-dated
for advertising and the video board would help grow TV contracts. It was noted
that two video boards/score boards would be needed for the stadium if the
stadium developed seating at both north and south ends.
Differences were expressed in how the stadium seating should be improved.
One owner stressed a high need in a canopy cover over the seating due to the
revenue lost for rained out events. The canopy could be integrated into boxed
seating which is also an item that would improve the stadium.
Another owner expressed that improving the quality of the existing seating would
be a low cost high return item, such as plastic seat backs. An extended plaza
area where spectators could get concessions, but still see the game would be a
positive addition, and it could be covered with additional seating or club boxes.
Office and meeting space would be beneficial.
Other than vehicular ingress and egress, other improvements to the park in
general were not discussed. One owner suggested that improvements made to
the stadium would generate revenue to pay for other park improvements.
NCAA and ACC
Both the NCAA and the ACC are major repeat user groups that hold their
championships at the WakeMed Soccer Park. The ACC has held both their
women’s and men’s soccer championships at the park during 2003-2005 and for
the past years have been alternating either the women’s or the men’s
championship at the park. During the off-years, the championships have been
held at the Disney Wide World of Sports Soccer Complex, Florida State campus,
or the Maryland Soccerplex.
The NCAA has held Division 1 championships at the park each year since 2005.
The men’s championships were held in 2005 and in 2007 and will continue in
2009. The women’s championships were held in 2006 and 2008 and will
continue in 2010. Both groups stated that they return to WakeMed Soccer Park
because of the quality of both the stadium field and the practice fields.
Similar to professional soccer, one of the highly recommended items from these
groups is a Video Board. They use Video Boards for public service
announcements, trivia, interviews, and to broadcast the National Anthem.
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Events that these groups host typically need many multi-purpose areas. In the
past they have been using tents, but feel that at minimum the Park should have
four locker rooms. Similar to views expressed by local soccer groups, the locker
rooms would not require showers but be toilets and changing areas. Even actual
lockers are not being used as much by the teams at these events. The size of
the current locker rooms is adequate for soccer although may be a little small if
these groups were to host lacrosse events at the Park. There should be a clear
delineation between areas for teams and areas for officials.
Other tents are being used for media workspace and ESPN interviews. This is
somewhat hampered in the tents because of the wind. In addition to a more
permanent solution to the tents, these areas need more power. Generators are
being brought in for electrical needs for these areas, inflatables, and other
interactive and media items.
A number of quarter-final and semi-final games are played on the Koka Booth
Field (Field 2), which garnered a lot of suggestions for improvement. Specifically
the lights on this field need to be increased, as sometimes the lights from the
main stadium are causing vision issues with the goal keepers.
The NCAA and ACC representatives expressed that the temporary press box
constructed for events on Field 2 was adequate, but locker room/changing
facilities were not. Temporary changing facilities were set up in portable tents,
but their location required players to travel through the stands to reach the fields.
Also recommended were upgraded concession facilities.
Although these groups currently use only the soccer aspect of the Park, the
conversation also included improvements that could be made to attract more
lacrosse and cross country events.
Although a North Carolina location might be deemed a little “South” to be a
championship location for lacrosse (owing to the fact that many southern schools
don’t compete in this sport), the fields at the Park are quite suitable for lacrosse
play by adding safety nets behind goals and preserving extra sideline space.
Lacrosse practice typically occurs on turf fields or natural fields dedicated to the
sport given that the wear is usually harder on the field than soccer.
For cross country events, the most stringent factor is the start/finish area of the
course. The quality of the grass in this area needs to be well kept. Other minor
improvements may include a permanent structure signifying the start/finish,
grandstands to watch the finish, and an area for awards staging and results
posting. A portable video board is often brought in for events.
Both the NCAA and the ACC gave many other general comments about the Park
and their preferences when selecting venues. These groups prefer playing their
games on a natural grass surface, but often utilize artificial turf for practice.
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Parking at the facility is not the Park’s best aspect due to ingress and egress
time, but has not been a problem. They are comfortable with solutions that
transport spectators via shuttle if needed. Additional seating could be added as
the events grow, but would like to maintain the open aspect of these concourses.
When asked about canopy covered seating, they replied that a few of the venues
that they use are large, soccer-specific stadiums that have canopies and that it is
nice, but that it was not required nor an expectation.
Local Cross Country
The final small group meeting was conducted with coaches of local cross country
groups that use the Park. Although the Park is known for soccer, it also has one
of the best kept cross country courses in the region. The purpose of the
conversation was to look for items of improvement that might attract larger cross
country events, such as the ACC championship, which was held at the University
of Miami this past year.
The main item of the course that needs improvement is the start/finish line.
Although the turf in this area has seen improvement since Park staff have
restricted the parking near Fields 6 & 7, the distance from the start line to the first
curve is currently around 450 meters. This distance needs to be revised to
around 600 meters if possible to meet official specifications. While this might
prohibit the course from being a Division 1 NCAA site, it would most likely not
prevent regional meets.
During the invited group forum, some cross country groups stated that current
distance of 5k is nice because there is not a lot of repeat looping. In the group
meeting, it was expressed that the course did need some 2k loops to hold events
of other distances, such as 6, 8 and 10k runs. The ideal course has looping, but
long enough to prevent lapping.
The NCAA can require up to 30 feet maintained for width, but the current width of
the course is nice and is not causing problems. This width would also be
sufficient for regional or Division 2 meets. The materials on the course are
working well, including the ‘crush and run’ stone on the trails. The trails have
somewhat of a reputation as being a fast course because the stone can compact
to an almost track-like surface. There has been some feedback that there are
still too many rocks in the start/finish area.
To hold larger meets, these groups would like to see a pavilion with power and a
few toilets. Port-a-johns are sufficient for large events such as meets that
typically have 2,500 people including 1,600 athletes or the Great American which
typically has 4,000-5,000 in attendance. The pavilion would like to have a tiered
area for awards stage, but be generally similar to the pavilion in Cary’s Bond
Park.
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While most of their concerns were about the course itself, the design team
pressed the group for more ideas, even asking for “pie in the sky” wish items.
Under this umbrella of thinking, the groups mentioned items discussed with the
NCAA and ACC such as a permanent start/finish structure, seating to make the
course more fan-friendly, and Mondo mats to cover road crossings. There
preference was to re-route the course so there would not be any more road
crossings.
Technology was discussed as a way to make the course more accessible.
Similar to local soccer groups, they expressed an interest in Park wireless
internet access and have thought about putting cameras on the course that could
broadcast runners’ progress via the web or a portable Video Board.
The local cross country groups appreciate and value their place in the Park even
though the Park is more geared toward soccer. They would like the Town to
keep them in mind and secure greenway rights from developers should the State
sell the property immediately to the south of the Park. A simple foot bridge could
expand the course dramatically.
Both the cross country group and other groups that have spoken to the Town of
Cary staff have talked about altering the cross country course to accommodate
the growing sport of Disc Golf. There is a relatively fine example of a course at
Middle Creek Park in Cary.
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V.
Data Analysis Narrative
While the Park’s user groups represent a great diversity, there are common
elements to their needs. The groups represent a varying degree of skill, from
high school to college and professional, and a varying degree of locality, from
Cary and Wake County groups to colleges and professional teams from around
the region and country. The items that are common between the groups will
make the greatest impact and should be categorized into immediate and shortterm needs. Items pertaining to specific groups or items that expand or improve
existing functions have been categorized into medium and long-range planning.
Most improvement items recommended will be location-specific within the Park
and are categorized as WakeMed Soccer Stadium, Koka Booth Stadium, Park
Fields, Park and Cross Country Course, Parking and Circulation and Future
Stadium. There are a number of items that are general Park items that may
cross these categories and also create a greater impact.
The Master Plan diagram on the next page highlights recommended
improvements and shows their general locations. Additionally, the letters and
numbers used in the diagram correspond with the text laid out within this
document.
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A.1 Stadium Capacity: Quantity and Quality
Current stadium capacity is 7,000 spectator seats. Given the current number
of college-level events the Town is hosting and the need to increase capacity,
it is recommended that the ultimate capacity for the WakeMed Stadium would
need to increase to 15,000 seats. (Beyond this capacity is possible, but would
require major renovation and investment that may be better suited to the
eventual planning of the larger future stadium discussed at the end of this
section.)
The key to expanding the facility is to find the balance in the seating number.
Currently, the stadium has a good small-stadium feel that enhances the
excitement of the game. A smaller sold-out stadium retains a better feeling
than a larger stadium with open seats.
An immediate need is to increase the stadium capacity from 7,000 seats to
10,000 seats in order to attract and retain the NCAA Championships which
occur each fall. The north end zone is where this can occur without negative
impacts to other areas. Once this need is met then the focus should return to
improving the quality of the seating.
The WakeMed Soccer Stadium ultimate size will depend on vehicular access
to the site. Chatham Street is currently configured as a 2-lane road with a
center turn lane and is not conducive to high volumes of traffic which are
created during stadium events. Consideration has been given to using some
type of shuttle system to access the site; however it is limited based on
Chatham Street’s current configuration. The current site is designed for 3200
parking spaces and should be able to handle a stadium event seating up to
10,000. As the facility expands, a traffic study will be required with any
proposed seating expansion to further detail requirements needed to
appropriately handle stadium events.
Seating Quality: Typical attendance numbers are not indicating a strong need
for additional seating beyond increasing it to 10,000 seats in the short term.
Instead, seating expansions should focus on different types of seating ranging
from causal viewing plazas to luxury seating. These diverse options will help
to enhance the stadium experience needed to lure additional spectators.
Medium-term goals should improve the quality of existing seating to improve
both the spectator and the player experience in the stadium. Along the east
and west sides of the stadium there are a number of seating areas that can
be converted to plastic seats with plastic seat backs.
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Small improvements can also include upgraded goals and team benches.
Currently, TV platforms are only located on the west side of the stadium. It
has been noted that if this were also accommodated on the east side of the
stadium, the dramatic ‘face’ of the west side with its press box could be a TV
feature.
Similar seating goals should include an increase in luxury boxes and club
seating. Current luxury boxes were designed to overlook the main stadium as
well as the Koka Booth Stadium. Luxury boxes oriented length-wise with the
stadium would create opportunities to generate higher revenue for private
party seating.
North Stadium Expansion: The capacity of the north stadium is not
recommended to exceed capacity on the dominant (east and west) sides of
the stadium. The recommendation is to plan up to 4,000 seats on the north
side while providing a pedestrian concourse that connects the east and west
sides. An immediate need is to expand the stadium by 3,000 seats which
could be done at this location with the remainder of seats done at a later time.
South Stadium Expansion: Similarly, large capacity seating should not be
planned for the south side of the stadium. Seating on the south side of the
stadium currently has a capacity roughly of 2,000. The existing seating
should be modified to be accessed from the rear to improve the circulation of
the stadium once the concourse is extended along the southern side of the
stadium. Seating could be expanded by an additional 2,000 seats to reach a
total of 4,000 on the south side.
West Stadium Expansion: Expansion of seating on the west side of the
stadium involves adding luxury suites. It is recommended that luxury suites
be located along both sides of the press box on the west side of the stadium.
Planning must include a connection to the existing elevator in Building A with
attention to preserving the concourse’s open and pedestrian characteristics
that are favorably viewed.
East Stadium Expansion: Expansion of seating on the east side of the
stadium should be an incremental expansion as related to the elevated
concessions plaza. The plaza on the east side of the stadium would have
field views that would boost revenue by encouraging concessions buying
during play time and also create a social atmosphere. While this idea doesn’t
dramatically increase the amount of seating at the stadium, it can increase
the diversity and quality of the seating. On this elevated plaza would
included new concession area along with restroom facilities. This new
concession area could be in lieu of major upgrades to the existing concession
facilities and should be studied further.
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The concessions plaza begins as a low capacity covered gathering area but
is expanded with seating over the plaza of up to an additional 1,500 seats. At
the top of the additional seating, luxury suites would be added and the entire
area covered.
Stadium Canopy: The lack of space around the stadium also has implications
with the medium and long-range item of canopy covered seating. A 40’ wide
canopy on all four sides of the stadium is possible. The expense of a canopy
addition ranges between one million dollars to cover the elevated plaza
seating to five million dollars based on coverage and design. Careful
planning must be given to a design that preserves the concourse and unites
the divergent seating types.
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A.2 Concessions
The most pressing need of the main soccer stadium is an upgrade of its
concessions. This opinion was expressed by nearly every user group. The
Town is currently in the process of making alterations to improve the
concessions area attached to Building A, an incremental stage that should
also be applied to the concessions areas of Buildings B and E in the future.
Medium and long-term planning needs should address the need for a larger
concessions area dedicated specifically to food preparation and storage. This
function needs vehicular access away from pedestrian paths. A
recommended location is the under-utilized southwest corner of the stadium.
Planning should include a new plaza behind the south seating to improve the
connectivity between the east and west sides of the stadium. Vehicular
access should be provided by paving the stadium parking lot on the east side
and extending it along the south side of the stadium.
Medium and Long-range planning goals for concessions include an outdoor
seating plaza with field views. The recommended location is an elevated
platform behind the east grandstands. The nature of the soccer game tends
to keep spectators in the stands during play. With connections to the stands
and the plaza area around Building B, the concessions plaza would create an
informal gathering area that could increase concession sales with its visual
connectivity to the field. Initially, the plaza could be built with a tensile
structure covering the area from the weather with long-range planning to
include it covered by a seating expansion above. As seating capacity
increases, additional concessions build-out should be included at the back of
the platform. Beneath the platform plaza, circulation patterns and the
children’s play zone should remain.
A.3 Video Board
The second improvement that should be considered short-term or immediate
would be the procurement of a Video Board for the stadium. This item is a
priority for both the national collegiate users of the stadium as well as the
professional soccer tenant. Besides potential revenue for advertisement,
video boards have the ability to capture the attention of a wider soccer
audience. The recommendation is for the video board to be located in the
existing scoreboard area on the north side of the stadium.
Long-term planning should include a second video board as the stadium
seating capacity increases. A second video board should be installed on the
south side of the stadium once seating is constructed on the north side.
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A.4 Team Rooms and Multi-purpose Space
There are immediate needs for additional multi-purpose space and team
rooms. There is currently a need for multiple changing areas for teams that
include toilets, a few showers but not necessarily lockers when more than two
teams play on the same day.
Currently, the existing stadium features two full locker rooms, team room, and
changing room without lockers or showers that is currently used for office
space by the Railhawks. This spaces currently works fine when only 2 teams
are playing. However, additional space is needed when multiple teams plan
and or tournaments are held.
It is recommended that two team rooms (each including toilets) be built on the
lower level of Building “C” in the southwest corner of the stadium. The
building’s location with vehicular access on the south side of the stadium will
allow buses to load and unload teams outside of the spectator crowds. The
team rooms should have direct access to the Koka Booth Field. Another
opportunity to consider during the design of Building “C” is to include a tunnel
beneath the plaza that directly exits onto WakeMed Soccer Stadium field.
The upper level would be multipurpose space that can be used for large
events as well as for regular programming by the Town of Cary. See the
attached conceptual plan for potential layout of the building.
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A.5 Administrative Office with Meeting Space
An administrative office building with meeting space is a long-range goal for
the facility. Office space is not a goal that will increase the public image of
the park, yet the current office space is barely adequate. The offices of the
Railhawks are currently housed in the space designed to be a Team Room
for the Carolina Courage. Offices for the Town of Cary staff are located in a
space designed for storage.
It is recommended that an office building be located near the public entrance
of the stadium. The landscaped area near the flagpoles and northeast of
Building “B” is an ideal location for offices and additional meeting space. The
location would put offices in a location that is easily identified and accessed
by the public, is in visual control of access to the park, and can also include
additional box office functions as the stadium capacity increases.
Construction of the office building would also reverse the Railhawks office
space back to an additional team room or a meeting space. Event functions
that are currently held in tents on the plaza could occur in this space as well.
A.6 Field Lighting Upgrades
The current lighting system has a field average of 95 footcandles and
currently just meets the minimum lighting requirements for televised events.
As use of the field grows with increased capacity and higher tiered events,
improvements to lighting levels is recommended to be a long term planning
priority. Any lighting improvements should meet the latest “NCAA Best
Lighting Practices”. The current recommended requirements are listed below:
NCAA
National Broadcast
Minimum
Footcandle
125
Average
Footcandle
140
Uniformity
1.5:1 or less
Any Stadium lighting upgrades should take into consideration the addition of
canopy’s over seating areas. The current lighting is designed around the
Building “A” roof line. Any canopy that extends higher or further out than the
Building “A” roof line will interfere with the current lighting system.
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B. Koka Booth Stadium
The addition of 510 permanent seats in 2008 to the Koka Booth Stadium (Field 2)
has had a great effect on the park. With the creation of Koka Booth Stadium, the
Park is able to reduce the wear on the main stadium and accommodate smaller
games with greater quality. As many of the user groups are using this smaller
stadium more, obvious improvements mimic those to the main stadium to a
lesser degree.
Koka Booth Stadium is unique in that Field 3 is immediately adjacent to the Koka
Booth Stadium (Field 2) providing distinct opportunities to host special events
that may need the use of two adjacent fields. In addition, it is also immediately
adjacent to WakeMed Stadium. As described in the WakeMed Soccer Stadium
section regarding Team Rooms, the lower level of the Building C location would
provide direct access to the Koka Booth Field without players having to walk
through the spectator seating.
Toilets and concessions for Koka Booth Stadium are well served by Building “A”
and Building “D” of the main stadium due to their close proximity.
B.1 Lighting & Electrical
As use of Koka Booth Stadium grows with increased capacity and higher
tiered events, improvements to lighting levels are recommended to be a
short-term priority. Limited TV broadcast is currently needed at the facility to
host the existing events. Any lighting improvements should meet the latest
“NCAA Best Lighting Practices”. The current minimum requirements are
listed below:
NCAA
Limited Broadcast
Footcandle
75
Uniformity
2:1 or less
Note: Lighting should be designed so that it can be reduced to match Field 3
Field 3 Recommended lighting
Class
Footcandle
II
50
Uniformity
2.5:1 or less
Due to increasing power needs by events, it is recommended that projects
near either stadium should increase the electrical capabilities of the park
rather than relying on using spares of the existing service.
B.2 Seating Capacity
As a medium-term planning priority, the seating should be a focus in
increasing the spectator use of Koka Booth Stadium to a total of 1500 seats.
Similar to the main stadium, incremental seating expansions are
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recommended. High quality seating should not be a focus of the planning as
regular bench seating was selected by the Town for the initial 510 seats and
this row size will not accommodate seat backs or individual plastic seats with
backs.
B.3 Press
The concourse plaza between Koka Booth and WakeMed Stadiums currently
includes an area that is naturally suited for a Press Box. Depending on need,
this area can be a temporary press area, a small permanent one-story press
box, or a raised press box connected to Building “A’s” existing elevator with
space for concessions or merchandise beneath. The addition of a press box
may also fulfill broadcasting and PA needs for Koka Booth Stadium. Due to
the current flexibility of the space this is listed as a long term priority.
B.4 Video Board - Portable
As more preliminary games for championship events are played at Koka
Booth Stadium, the Park will receive more frequent requests for a Video
Board at this stadium. A permanent Video Board at this location may not
provide a reasonable return on investment; however, there are several
options by Video Board manufacturers for “mobile units” that have a fully
functional Video Board that extends into the air from a trailer unit. While
much more expensive than a typical Video Board, this unit could be ported to
Koka Booth Stadium, the Cross Country Course, or any of the other venues
at the Town of Cary’s such as USA Baseball or even the annual Lazy Daze
Event.
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C. Park Fields
Outside of the two stadiums, which have traditionally served large event
competitions, the remaining fields (4,5,6,7 & 8) of the Park have transitioned from
event practice fields to serving a community role since the Town of Cary has
assumed the management of the Park.
C.1 Artificial Turf Fields with Lights
Due to the limited amount of developable space at the Park, the best answer
to increase play time at the fields is the conversion to artificial turf. During the
master plan process the design team reviewed options for additional fields.
Due to the significant impact it would have on the site (tree removal, retaining
walls, parking needs) it was determined that the best way to accommodate
the need for additional playing time would be converting existing grass fields
to artificial turf fields.
Recent advancements in the manufacturing of artificial turf fields have led to
safer playing environments than previous generations of artificial turf. Turf
fields provide playing surfaces that are less susceptible to wear and weather
cancellations. They have a higher initial cost than an under-drained natural
playing surface, however the costs between the two types of fields even out
over the 10 year life span when factoring maintenance costs.
It is recommended that short-term planning include the conversion of one or
two fields. Fields 4 and 5 are recommended due to their prominent location
within the Park. These two fields could easily become prime local competition
fields with a few other amenities. It is recommended that field 8 be
considered in the mix when planning for artificial turf fields. Long-term
planning should consider Fields 6 and 7.
With increased playing time available on artificial field, the conversion must
include the addition of field lighting. Electrical infrastructure is already in
place for lighting at Fields 4 and 5, strengthening the recommendation to
covert these fields to artificial turf first. The most efficient type of lighting
should be used taking into consideration the long term operating cost. A
remote operating system should be used that will control, monitor and
manage the lighting system. The current standards of Illuminating
Engineering Society of North American (IESNA) should be met. To determine
the appropriate illumination criteria, the IESNA has developed 4 classes
based on the skill levels of the players and the anticipated number of
spectators. The table below shows the current recommended light levels:
Class
III
Footcandle
30
Uniformity
3:1 or less
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C.2 Irrigation Pond and Water Stewardship
Since its inception, the ability for the WakeMed Soccer Park to provide and
control its own water sources has been crucial to its success. Irrigation water
is currently provided by a pond to the north of the fields that is fed from wells
and storm water collection. The current water demand for the 8 fields is
higher then what this pond can supply during extended times without rain.
The Town of Cary has improved the quality of the park’s fields by blending a
sand mixture into the native soil to produce a healthier grass growing medium
producing a more durable surface. This increase in the field quality, coupled
with recent droughts, has shown a need to increase the Park’s ability to
collect water.
Town staff reviewed the current master plan for reclaimed water. The
reclaimed water master plan does not show reclaimed water being extended
within range to serve this facility.
Conversion to artificial turf fields will help alleviate the need for some
irrigation. Currently artificial turf fields do require supplemental potable water
to cool the fields during the warm months. An underdrainage system would
be installed to capture any water that does not evaporate which could be
reused for irrigation of the existing turf fields.
Medium-term planning should include an additional storm-water collection
pond south of the main stadium. This pond could potentially function as both
a storm water detention pond (for expansion of the WakeMed Stadium) as
well as an irrigation pond. HVAC condensate as well as the existing field
underdrains should be routed to this pond in order to collect as much water as
possible. The design of this pond would need to minimize impacts to the
existing cross country trail that loops through this area.
Discussions were held regarding expanding the existing pond. The design
team reviewed the option and felt the overall benefit would be minimal due to
the existing site constraints. One option that could be considered is
contacting the adjacent state property designated for the future stadium which
includes wells that produce a higher volume than Park property wells.
Negotiations for use of their wells may be another option to increase the
amount of water however this option is no more sustainable than using
potable water.
C.3 Park Shelters
It is recommended that short-term, medium-term and long-term planning
include shelters near the park fields. User groups identified shelters as a
place to gather for events as well as an accessible haven during rain or to
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provide a location to get out of the sun. While a shelter or pavilion for Fields
4,5 & 8 should be considered for long-range planning, a shelter near Fields 6
and 7 should be considered a short-term planning priority for the Park and is
discussed further in section D.
D. Park and Cross Country Course
D.1 Cross Country Course Expansion
The Cross Country Course may be one of the best kept secrets of the park.
Much of the public doesn’t realize that it is part of the park, and yet cross
country groups in our area recognize it as one of the best maintained courses
in our region.
Planning a new 2k loop through the park will dramatically increase the
amount of distances the course can provide for both men and women’s
events. There is an existing sewerline that runs between the western
property line and field 3 where a trail could be constructed. Any alterations to
the course should take into consideration the required distances needed at
the start and finish of the course, should try to avoid road crossings, and
should be of similar materials as the existing course.
A disc golf course in conjunction with the cross country course was
discussed. Due to the course’s regional importance it is not recommended
that disc golf or any other type of facility be added along the course at this
time.
D.2 Shelter with Restroom near Fields 6 & 7
The Cross Country Course shares its start/finish area with the existing grass
parking around Fields 6 and 7, although this area has little fanfare. It is
recommended that adding a shelter to this area be a short-term planning
priority to resolve toilet and potable water needs for the cross country course
runners as well as also resolve needs for users of Fields 6 & 7. Planning for
the shelter should consider the needs of both user groups (fields and cross
country). A signature pavilion that offers toilets, shelter, and awards staging
area should be developed for this area.
D.3 Park Comforts – Wireless Internet, Play Area & Public Art
It is recommended that on-going planning address several smaller items that
can be improved over the years to improve the creature comforts of the park.
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Two user groups expressed an interest in the Park having wireless internet
access. Providing this relatively low cost service could pull in more users as
well as establish a backbone for new technological improvements in the Park
as described by local soccer and cross country groups.
A traditional play area at the park was not highly requested by many of the
user groups at the current time. Long term planning should consider a future
play area near the existing public art “Balancing Act” due to the fact that the
facility will grow and become more diverse over time.
Many groups expressed continued inclusion of public art in the Park. It is
recommended that public art serve as a focal point for group pictures at
events. The current large-scale art “Balancing Act” is not conducive to this
purpose however it does serve as an entrance feature to the park and
functions quite well in this manner.
Across from “Balancing Act” there is an existing concrete wall with a sign on
it. Currently it is an underused space and staff is looking into options of how
this can be used as a focal point. There may be additional opportunities to
include public art throughout the facility as well.
D.4 Maintenance Facility Expansion
A medium term planning priority is the expansion of the existing facility
maintenance area currently located near field 8. Secured, covered areas for
equipment are needed to protect the investment the Town has placed into the
equipment. In addition, current environmental regulations require covered
washbays for equipment that drain to sanitary sewer in order to protect the
streams. A small office in the maintenance yard would enable facility
maintenance staff to move out of the basement of Building D and return this
to a needed storage area.
D.5 Signage
It is recommended that the Town of Cary continue to consider signage in the
Park. Many user groups expressed interest in displaying club signs.
Respondents felt that the current field numbering system was confusing. The
Park entrance sign, recently replaced, is problematic to those who are not
familiar with the Park, such as regional and national groups. While it is
commendable that the Town has followed their own restrictions as to size and
color, the sign is not prominent enough for a major Town destination. This is
especially true given that the mass of the Park is far from the road and not
immediately visible.
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E. Parking and Circulation
E.1 Pave parking lot between Fields 6 & 7
Many field user groups expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of parking near
Fields 6 and 7. While an unpaved parking lot is located in this area and open
during major events, normal park operations has the parking closed to
prevent damage to the Cross Country start/finish area. The parking lot at this
location is recommended to be paved. In addition, this parking area should be
linked to both the stadium as well as to the unpaved overflow parking area
located to the north.
The existing gravel drive that parallels Field 6 and links the parking lot located
between Fields 6 & 7 should be paved. Appropriate landscaping should be
considered along the edge of this drive due to its proximity to the Cross
County Starting line. Once circulation improvements are complete, a loop
system will be completed which will provide more options for exiting the
facility. Paving this access road will alter the existing parking configuration in
the grass/overflow parking area. Careful analysis should be completed to
ensure significant parking spaces are not lost and there is not a negative
impact to the cross country course start finish line.
E.2 Develop a new parking lot on south side of WakeMed Stadium
A new 195 space parking lot is recommended on the south side of the
Stadium. This is necessary to provide access for the increased seating that is
proposed on the southern end of the Stadium as well as the proposed
Building “C”. In addition, the existing parking lot and circulation on the east
side of the Stadium will need to be re-designed and paved so that it will
function with the new parking lot proposed on the south side.
E.3 Upgrade circulation between WakeMed Stadium and Fields 6 & 7
The current “land bridge” connecting the parking lot between fields 6 & 7 to
the stadium parking should be re-engineered to handle car traffic in an effort
to create a paved circulation loop through the WakeMed Stadium. It should
be paved and linked to the eastern stadium parking lot. The land bridge
should be better identified as a crossing area between the stadium and the
eastern fields. Parking on the east side of the stadium is actually fairly close
to these fields and may have increased use if paved. Given its immediate
location to the main stadium, paving this area could also provide more VIP
parking and possible revenue for the main stadium.
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E.4 Close south loop of existing road near stadium entrance
The loop drive that currently exists surrounding the island where the public art
is located “Balancing Act” should be altered. It is recommended that the
southern leg of this be closed off to thru traffic. Closing off this segment will
create a pedestrian refuge and provide pedestrians more access to the
sculpture and play area that is proposed at this location. During large events
this area could be used for bus parking or other temporary uses.
E.5 Trinity Road Extension
While traffic flow is not problematic for many of the smaller user groups, it has
always been noticed during the professional soccer games and large
championship events. The 2001 Soccer Park Master Plan includes a traffic
pattern that was one of several options discussed with the North Carolina
Department of Transportation during the original construction. The proposed
extension of Trinity Road for the 2001 Soccer Park Master Plan was to follow
the eastern boarder of the site and connect to a larger parking area that
would be required for the future stadium discussed in the next section.
Since the 2001 Soccer Park Master Plan, the extension of Trinity Road
through the park has not been constructed. Trinity Road was extended from
Cary Towne Boulevard to the southern edge of the WakeMed property. With
the inclusion of a vehicular bridge, an extension of the parking could provide
an important part of solving the traffic flow in and out of the park by
connecting the Park to Cary Towne Boulevard – a street that is better
designed to handle larger traffic patterns than Chatham Street if NCDOT
would allows this to occur. This short-term solution would help alleviate traffic
problems at larger events until the full Trinity Road Extension could be
constructed.
The Town of Cary Capital Project ST1091 evaluated possible roadway
alignments. However, no alignments were established for Trinity Road
extension. In addition CAMPO and the I-40 Partnership are looking at this
area and the Town should continue to work with these and other
organizations to ensure negative impacts to the WakeMed Soccer Park do
not occur.
In the meantime, it is recommended that Town of Cary take advantage of this
lull in the construction of Trinity Drive to analyze the impact that this will have
on WakeMed Soccer Park. The current design of Trinity Drive indicates the
removal of the entire buffer along the eastern edge of the WakeMed facility.
With the widening of I-40 along this side of WakeMed, which is currently
underway and the resulting increase in noise levels, every effort should be
made to buffer WakeMed Soccer Park from the future extension of Trinity
Road as well as from Interstate 40.
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While the extension of Trinity Road will continue to be a long-term planning
item, it should be given a high priority as it will solve one of the major
problems plaguing a top class facility.
E.6 Pedestrian Circulation and Walnut Creek Greenway
As the vehicular circulation system is improved within WakeMed Soccer Park,
consideration should be made to improve the pedestrian circulation as well.
Any improvements or additional parking lots should include generous
walkways and visible crosswalks.
A 10’ wide multi-use trail is proposed adjacent to the west side of Trinity
Road. The pedestrian system within WakeMed Soccer Park should link to this
to facilitate pedestrian access to the Park. In addition, the PRCR
Comprehensive Facilities Master Plan includes the future Walnut Creek
Greenway along the Walnut Creek buffer, through WakeMed Soccer Park. It
is recommended that this greenway be located along the southern side of the
buffer (State Property) so that its use does not conflict with Cross Country
Course. The greenway and the cross-country course should connect to
encourage and increase loops. This greenway would be a development
requirement by Town of Cary to provide the easement by the commercial
developers of the property when the property is developed.
E.7 Land Expansion/Future Development
Surrounding the park is undeveloped or under-developed land. As this land
develops the Town should work with the developers to ensure that compatible
uses develop immediately adjacent to WakeMed Soccer Park. In addition,
the Town should keep open the option to acquire additional land for future
expansion if the right opportunity presents itself.
F. Future Stadium
F.1 25,000 Capacity Soccer Stadium
The 2001 Master Plan included area designated for a 25,000 capacity soccerspecific stadium.
While a 25,000 capacity stadium will most likely not be considered a priority in
the next 10 years, it is recommended to keep the stadium in the Master Plan
to reserve its place. Soccer has long been the fastest growing sport in the
United States and statistics this past year has placed the Raleigh/Cary metro
area as one of the fastest growing areas in terms of population growth. With
strong local soccer clubs, such as CASL, it is envisioned that soccer will
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become a more dominate past time as the current generation of young fans
become parents guiding the next generation. While the Triangle has a strong
women’s collegiate following, Cary can capitalize on the growing popularity of
soccer by nurturing and hosting events with the college and professional
teams. It is the success of the professional team or teams located in this area
that will eventually push the need for the larger stadium. Ideally, the faster
this professional success occurs, the more likely the Soccer Park will be able
to retain regional and national events as those events also grow. If the
expansion of these two user groups coincide, it is likely that the Town of Cary
will remain a “NCAA Championship City.”
A larger capacity stadium will require several improvements to the park. One
of these improvements must be the extension of Trinity Road through the
park and connected to its parking. Additional parking must be made available
through parking decks, community transit, and/or shuttles from remote
parking.
The stadium is recommended to be planned as an arena, with toilets,
concessions, and other functions built into multi-level concourses within the
seating rather than placed on ground level outside of the seating. With its
proximity to the road, the stadium should have a signature design and feature
a canopy over the structure.
Summary of Recommendations
1. Stadium Capacity: Expand stadium capacity from the current
capacity of 7,000 to 15,000 seats
 Improve Seating Quality - Seatbacks
 North End Zone Seating Expansion (4,000)
 South Stadium Seating Alteration and Expansion (2,000)
 West Stadium Luxury Suites
 East Stadium Expansion Including Plaza
o Elevated Concessions Plaza
o Plaza Cover
o Additional Concessions/Restrooms
o Additional 1,500 grandstand seating
o Luxury suites
 Stadium Canopy
2. Upgrade existing concessions throughout stadium
 Upgrade Building A Concessions (Under construction 2010)
 Upgrade Building B Concessions
 Upgrade Building E Concessions
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 41
3. Install video boards
 Install video board at North End (Priority)
 Install video board at South End
4. Construct new team rooms at Building C (Multi-purpose space main
level and 2 Team Rooms lower level)
5. Administrative office building with meeting spaces
6. Field Lighting Upgrades
B. Koka Booth Stadium (Fields 2 & 3)
1. Lighting Improvements
2. Seating Expansion from 510 seats to 1500 seats
3. Press Box
4. Video board - portable
C. Park Fields
1. Artificial turf fields with lights
2. Irrigation and water stewardship – construct new irrigation pond on
southern end of facility
3. Park shelters for fields 4,5 & 8
D. Park Amenities and Cross Country
1. Complete Cross Country Course expansion with loops and
alterations
2. Install new pavilion shelter for fields 6 & 7 and cross country course
that includes a restroom
3. Park comforts – wireless internet, playground and public art
4. Maintenance facility expansion
5. Signage improvements
E. Parking & Circulation
1. Pave existing gravel lot located between Fields 6 & 7
2. Develop a new parking lot on south side of Stadium
3. Re-engineer landbridge, pave and connect to parking lot on east
side of Stadium.
4. Close off south loop to provide pedestrian refuge near stadium
entrance
5. Analyze future extension of Trinity Road to ensure that proposed
multi-use trail is in design and that an adequate buffer remains
between the Soccer Park and Trinity Road.
6. Locate future Walnut Creek Greenway along the south side of the
Walnut Creek buffer.
7. Land expansion/Future Development
F. Future Stadium
25,000 capacity soccer stadium
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 42
VI. Implementation and Cost Estimate Plan
The benefit to having a Master Plan for the WakeMed Soccer Park is it lists out
all of the current needs and prioritizes them. As needs change the overall goals
can be reviewed to better understand what impact changes to the Master Plan
will have and adjustments to the overall plan can be made.
The implementation plan is broken into 4 planning priorities from immediate
planning priorities to long term planning priorities. The cost are in 2010 amounts
and should be adjusted based on inflation and other factors as the plan is
implemented.
***Note: Letters and Numbers below correspond with the Master Plan diagram
located at the beginning of Section V. Refer to this diagram for general locations
of recommended improvements.
Immediate Planning Priorities
Construction
NA
$900,000.00
$400,000.00
Design
$125,000.00
NA
NA
A.1
A.2
A.3
WakeMed Soccer Stadium
Stadium Expansion Schematics
North End Zone Seating Expansion
Video Board (North End)
A.4
Team Rooms & Multipurpose Space
(Building C)
$1,500,000.00
$140,000.00
Immediate Subtotal:
$2,800,000.00
$ 265,000.00
Total
$125,000.00
$900,000.00
$400,000.00
$1,640,000.00
$ 3,065,000.00
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 43
Short-term Planning Priorities
A.1
A.2
Elevated Plaza
Concessions Upgrade (E)
Construction
$700,000.00
$300,000.00
Design
$70,000.00
$30,000.00
Total
$770,000.00
$330,000.00
Koka Booth Soccer Stadium
B.1
C.1
C.1
D.2
E.1
E.5
E.6
E.7
Lighting Improvements (Fields 2 & 3)(75
FC for TV Field 2 and 50 FC on Field 3)
Park, Park Fields, Cross Country &
Parking and Circulation
Artificial Turf Field Conversion (Fields 4
& 5) (or Fields 4 & 8 for less)
Lighting Fields 4, 5(30 footcandles) & 8
for practice*
Pavilion Shelter with Restroom by Field
6&7
Vehicular Circulation Improvements Fields 6&7
Trinity Road Extension
Pedestrian Circulation and Walnut
Creek Greenway
Land Expansion
Short-Term Subtotal:
$690,000.00
$1,500,000.00
$410,000.00
NA
$150,000.00
NA
$690,000.00
$1,650,000.00
$410,000.00
$350,000.00
$35,000.00
$385,000.00
$200,000.00
TBD
$20,000.00
TBD
$220,000.00
TBD
$550,000.00
TBD
55,000.00
TBD
$605,000.00
TBD
$4,700,000.00
$360,000.00
$5,060,000.00
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 44
Medium-term Planning Priorities
Construction
Design
Total
A.1
A.1
Elevated Plaza

Plaza Cover

Additional Concessions Area and
Expansion of B

East Stadium Seating Expansion
A.1,
C.2
&
E.2
A.1
South Stadium Improvements - Seating
alternations, Concourse Plaza, Parking
Improvements including including first 65
spaces of south parking lot and Irrigation
Pond/BMP
Existing Seating Upgrades (Seatbacks)
$650,000.00
$350,000.00
$65,000.00
$35,000.00
$715,000.00
$385,000.00
B.2
Seating Expansion (1000 additional
seats)
$300,000.00
$30,000.00
$330,000.00
D.1
D.4
D.5
Cross Country Course Loops and
Alterations
Maintenance Facility Upgrade
Signage
$100,000.00
$300,000.00
$50,000.00
$10,000.00
$30,000.00
NA
$110,000.00
$330,000.00
$50,000.00
$475,000.00
$5,275,000.00
A.1
Medium Subtotal:
$850,000.00
$85,000.00
$935,000.00
$700,000.00
$1,500,000.00
$70,000.00
$150,000.00
$770,000.00
$1,650,000.00
$4,800,000.00
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 45
Long-term Planning Priorities
Construction
$5,000,000.00
$4,000,000.00
$1,500,000.00
$400,000.00
Design
$500,000.00
$400,000.00
$150,000.00
NA
Total
$5,500,000.00
$4,400,000.00
$1,650,000.00
$400,000.00
A.7
Stadium Canopy (40’ wide on 4 sides)
Luxury Suites
Administrative Office with Meeting Spaces
Video Board (South End)
Lighting Upgrades (125 FC minimum, 140
FC avg)*
B.3
B.4
Press Box
Video Board - Portable
$300,000.00
TBD
$30,000.00
TBD
$330,000.00
TBD
C.3
D.3
Shelter for Fields 4 & 5
Playground/Park Amenities
$100,000.00
$250,000.00
$10,000.00
$25,000.00
$110,000.00
$275,000.00
E.2
Vehicular Circulation (South Stadium
Expansion 130 spaces & East Stadium
Parking Upgrades)
$1,275,000.00
$127,500.00
$1,402,500.00
$ 13,625,500.00
$1,242,500.00
$14,867,500.00
A.1
A.1
A.5
A.3
Long-term Subtotal:
$800,000.00
NA
$800,000.00
* Lighting cost from Musco and includes their energy efficiency system, 25 year warranty including
re-lamp and remote operation
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 46
APPENDIX
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 47
Appendix – A1
User Group Meeting - March 19th, 2009 – 7 PM
Cary Senior Center
Overview:
15 mins. – Introductions/Overview
20 mins. – break into groups (min. 5)
10 mins. – each group leader summarize
15 mins. – review survey/answer questions
Staff in Attendance:
Gail Taylor - PRCR, William Davis – PRCR, Athletics’ Manager, Keith Jenkins – PRCR,
Facility Supervisor, David Crotts – PRCR, Assist Facility Supervisor, Doug McRainey –
PRCR, Parks Planning Manager, Paul Kuhn, PRCR – Senior Parks PlannerMichael
Sutton, AIA – Integrated Design
User Group Attendance:
Amy Olsen(Meredith), Chris Seaton(NC State), Lynn Harrell(NC Senior Games),
Michael Feranec(Copperhead Football), Doug Shonk(TFC),
Kelly McEleney(Peace College), Jenna Bailey(Carolina Soccer Club),
Bill Koester (Meredith)
Objectives of this planning effort include the following:
1. To update the master plan based on the Town of Cary’s current facility management
and operating goals.
2. To develop a facility that is both a national soccer venue as well as community-based
park accessible for local sports groups.
3. To define the ultimate scope and scale of the existing stadium in terms of overall
seating capacity, specialized seating (loge, skyboxes, etc) and concessions.
4. To analyze both current and future circulation for accessing and exiting events. This
analysis will include a review of the impact of the Trinity Road extension through the
facility.
5. To analyze all remaining undeveloped land area within the soccer park to maximize use
of entire facility.
6. To develop a priority list and schedule of capital projects necessary to achieve the
updated master plan.
# of organizations that use WakeMed Soccer Park: Over 60
- Over the past 4 years data is being gathered on facility use.
- Facility use will very from year to year but an overall trend line is developing.
- Weather, drought and other issues can affect field usage
- For example in 2007 field useage had to be cut back due to the drought.
- Facility is currently being maximized and groups are being turned away
- Once a year a request for field usage is placed out to all the groups
- Maintenance is the first item that is programmed
- For fields 3 -7, one of the fields is off-line at a time for 7 days
- A business plan is currently being developed with a lot of background info on the facility
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 48
Group Discussion:
1. What are the reasons that your group chooses WakeMed Soccer Park, ie the positives or
strengths of the park?
 Quality of facility
 Location of facility
 Cooperative staff
 Lighted fields (when available)
 Stadium - Appropriate for Senior Games
 XC course
- affordable
- one of only a few around (Greensborro and Charlotte)
- don't have to repeat path
- can handle large woods
2. What improvements could be made to WakeMed Soccer Park that would make it a better
park for your group?
 Restroom for outlying fields
 Shelter near fields 6 & 7 (Ritter Park size)
 More fields - small sided fields
 More multipurpose fields
 Indoor Track facility is needed in area (200 M oval) - 5 or 6 lanes
 Concession s
 Cheaper fees for the fields
 More lighted fields
 Artificial Turf
 Add Land
 Playground
 Need water near XC course
 More stadium seating
 Egress from Park could be improved
 Pedestrian access to north side of stadium needed.
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 49
Appendix – A2
Survey Results
NC Adult
Soccer
Assoc.
NC HS
Athletic
Assoc.
NC
Senior
Games
NC State
Cross
Country
Peace
College
St.
Timothy
Triangle
Flying
Disc
Triangle
Futbol
UNC
#4
Meredith
College
Cross
Country
#5
#6
#7
#8
#9
#10
#11
#12
#13
#14
5
5
na
5
5
4
3
4
2
5
3
5
na
5
na
5
4
na
na
5
na
5
na
5
na
na
5
4
na
na
na
na
Quality of playing surface field 4
na
5
na
na
5
na
na
na
na
na
5
na
na
5
na
na
na
3
4
na
na
5
na
na
3
4
na
na
5
na
na
n/
na
na
5
Quality of lighting for field 2 & 3
na
4
na
na
Quality of food served in concessions
na
na
na
Cleanliness of restrooms
4
na
5
Carolina
Copper
Heads
Carolina
Soccer
Club
Cary
High
School
Meredith
College
#1
#2
#3
Rate Facility Quality for Your Group (1-5+)
Amount and location of parking
3
3
na
WMSP Master Plan Survey
Cary
Academ
y Cross
Country
#15
TOTAL
5
4
56
5
5
na
48
5
5
5
na
29
3
4
4
4
na
25
na
3
4
4
4
na
25
na
na
4
4
4
na
na
24
na
na
na
5
3
4
na
na
24
na
na
na
na
3
3
2
na
na
13
5
3
na
na
na
na
Na
5
4
na
21
na
3
4
na
na
na
na
Na
Na
na
1
8
na
4
4
4
5
4
4
5
5
4
48
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 50
Meredith
College
Cross
Country
#5
NC Adult
Soccer
Assoc.
NC HS
Athletic
Assoc.
NC
Senior
Games
NC State
Cross
Country
Peace
College
St.
Timothy
Triangle
Flying
Disc
Triangle
Futbol
UNC
#6
#7
#8
#9
#10
#11
#12
#13
#14
5
na
5
5
3
4
4
5
5
5
45
4
5
na
5
4
3
2
1
Na
4
5
33
Restrooms in close proximity to the field
4
3
na
4
4
5
4
4
2
4
4
38
Scoreboard for the field
3
3
na
3
4
1
5
1
1
1
4
26
Permanent seating for spectators for a field
2
3
na
3
5
4
4
1
1
1
4
28
Concession in close proximity to facilities
3
3
na
4
4
1
1
1
1
4
22
Parking Facilities in close proximity to facilities
3
4
na
3
4
5
5
2
2
4
34
Other support facilities
3
2
na
4
1
4
4
22
Other
*
Carolina
Copper
Heads
Carolina
Soccer
Club
Cary
High
School
Meredith
College
#1
#2
#3
#4
Rate Importance to Your Group (1-5+)
Quality of the playing surface
4
Lights for the field
4
4
Cary
Academ
y Cross
Country
#15
TOTAL
Rate Importance to Cross Country Groups
(1-5+)
Quality of the running surface
Restrooms in close proximity to the field
Running clock for start / finish area for the field
Seating for start / finish area
Concession stand in close proximity to start / finish area
Parking Facilities in close proximity to the start area
Course signage
Permanently defined starting/finish areas
Sound system
Other
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
5
4
3
3
2
4
5
5
3
5
4
3
3
4
1
5
5
5
1
5
3
3
1
1
2
4
3
3
5
3
4
2
4
4
4
4
5
4
5
2
2
2
3
3
3
4
5
5
3
2
1
5
5
5
1
5
4
1
4
2
4
4
4
4
33
27
19
18
12
23
30
29
25
6
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 51
NC Adult
Soccer
Assoc.
NC HS
Athletic
Assoc.
NC
Senior
Games
NC State
Cross
Country
Peace
College
St.
Timothy
Triangle
Flying
Disc
Triangle
Futbol
UNC
#4
Meredith
College
Cross
Country
#5
#6
#7
#8
#9
#10
#11
#12
#13
#14
Carolina
Copper
Heads
Carolina
Soccer
Club
Cary
High
School
Meredith
College
#1
#2
#3
Cary
Academ
y Cross
Country
#15
Potential Facility Improvements
Additional fields for practice or games 10
1
10
11
1
1
5
na
10
2
2
9
7
1
10
1
10
1
1
2
1 3
Additional lighted fields 10
2
10
10
1
1
5
na
10
5
9
3
1
8
8
2
8
2
10
11
1 4
Conversion of natural fields to artificial turf 7
5
10
9
1
1
5
na
10
1
1
7
5
6
7
3
10
3
8
10
1 1
Additional restrooms for fields away from stadium 7
3
6
8
10
10
10
na
8
8
11
8
2
1
7
2
3
6
6
4
8
9
8 9
Additional park amenities (ie. Playground) 6
4
5
7
1
1
5
na
4
1
3
6
4
8
7
3
4
5
5
6
1
1
4
Better internal signage for locating facilities 3
8
5
6
9
9
5
na
7
3
6
1
6
2
1
11
2
10
1
9
1
3
5 8
Additional meeting space 2
9
4
3
10
8
5
na
7
1
5
2
5
5
5
2
11
2
7
1
4
10 10
Providing a picnic shelter for user groups 6
7
3
1
10
8
10
na
8
1
4
6
3
10
7
4
6
4
3
5
2
5
10 11
10
4
5
1
1
5
na
7
3
8
4
1
7
3
10
4
8
2
8
2
6
4
4
9
8
5
na
9
1
7
6
1
9
3
8
5
10
2
6
4 7
11
3
2
1
1
na
7
5
1
10
3
7
1
11
2
7
1
Additional safety lighting at night 4
Concession stands open during rentals 6
Scoreboards on outlying fields 4-8 3
Other
Other
10
10
11
10
10
1
Comments:
#1 Field availability August – Oct-Aug (only use 5 & 6)
#6 -Fields need to be more affordable
-Most expensive fields in the Southeast
-Would love to host region or national events but cost do not fit budget
-More access
#8 -Add stadium seating
#10 None of these relate to our needs (we only use field 2 during daylight)
#12 In general, we favor more access to fields, whether plush ones or scrubby ones- everything else is pie in the sky. Our leagues need blocks of time that can be honored from week to week.
we pursued lit fields in the winter months, perhaps we’d have more success booking fields.
#14 Turf fields would help
6
5
2
TOTAL
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 52
Appendix – A3
Interview Notes
Local Soccer (26 March 09)
Charlie – CASL
Pete – Triangle Futbol



Parking is adequate for clubs
Toilets for Fields 6 & 7
No interest in playgrounds at soccer park – believes there is liability as parents watch
soccer instead of watching kids on playground. Parents need to be by the fields.
 Park should have WiFi access for kids to do homework and parents to work between
practices and games
 Safety structures near the fields for lighting storms
 More goals (smaller)
 Lighting on 4, 5, 6, and 7 At least two fields should be synthetic turf. Any synthetic turf
field should have lighting. Not sure how much foot candles are needed but amount on
Field 2 and 3 is plenty.
 Not interested in scoreboards on other fields.
 Seating at other fields would be fine as long as it wouldn’t effect the size of the field.
 Doesn’t like the ‘permanent tents’ Build a space that could be flexible for meetings and
other needs
 Add seats to Koka Booth Stadium and more lighting
 2 more locker rooms are needed
 Concessions upgrades for cooking
 Place for a Photo Op – people often take some at the concrete soccer ball.
 Turf Fields should probably be Fields 4 & 5
 Turf is good for training – games should be on grass
 Futbol club has 8 field locations, mostly in Durham
 Wouldn’t mind seeing club signs in the park
 Needs more netting behind goals, especially on Field 8
 Needs better way-finding system
 Needs more traffic control for cross-country
 Portable bleachers
 Class rooms for Officials and Teams
Spectator Cover and Club Boxes for Stadium would be fine
College (26 March 09)
David Whitfield – ACC
Jeff and Dee Ann Keller – NCAA



Have had Men’s & Women’s Championship games in 03, 04, 05 and alternated men’s and
women’s in 06 & 07
Also use Disney, Flordia St. Campus, Maryland Soccerplex
Needs media workspace
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 53



Needs Video Board and manpower who knows how to run it
4 total locker rooms
Best thing about Soccer Park is the quality of the fields, even has high quality practice
fields.
 Priorities include lockers, press, and additional seating
 Parking is difficult getting in and out – consider shuttles
 Tents aren’t always great on windy nights for media workspace
 Not really using lockers or showers – teams just need space to dress and meet, restrooms
are important, TV, grease board – dual purpose rooms
 Soccer locker rooms need a little less space than lacrosse which has a large squad, but
otherwise similar needs. Could use an athletic training room.
 Officials should be kept in different locations that the teams.
 Tents have been about 40x40 with sound, lights, heat, and wireless. Have been draping
lines around the back field and using loud generators.
 Inflatables and interactive devices will all need power.
 Stresses the need for video board – PSA, trivia, interviews, mic – anthem
Lacrosse
 Our location may be a little too “south” for lacrosse. Would need more room on sidelines
and safety net at goals.
Koka Booth
 In 2011 the championship games may be combined with men and women at the same
location at the same time. Our seating capacity is Ok, but could use a little more (10,000
mentioned for combined event) Width of concourse is small.
 Need to increase the lighting foot candles on Koka Booth. Lights from main stadium
cause issues with goal keepers on Koka field. Temporary press location was Ok. Locker
room were tents and players accessing them mean going through spectators. Needs
more Concessions!
Cross Country
 Needs grand structure for good identification of start & finish
 Video Board could be brought in (mobile)
 Needs Awards staging and results posting place
General Preferences
 Prefer a natural grass playing surface for soccer, synthetic turf is fine for lacrosse and
soccer practice.
 Covered Seating is not required or expected.
Railhawks (26 March 09)
Brian Wellman






Number 1 priority is Concessions
Video Board is very high up on their list.
Grow TV Contracts
Interested in hosting men’s national team
Could use Office Space / Classroom Space
Interested in how much the park exceeds the required number of restrooms.
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 54
Discussed at length about seating at the stadium. Indicated that members in the Railhawks
organization are torn between if covered seating is more important or more seats. Quality of
seating is important with more seats with seat backs and is interested in the idea of a
Concessions Terrace with view of the game. Would like to see Club Boxes and covered areas for
spectators, but priority list was
1 Concessions
2 Seats
3 Video Board
Cross-Country (20 April 09)













ACC Championship this year at University of Miami
Distance from start line to first curve should be about 600m – is currently around 450m
Materials – crush and run on trail is working well
Current track is not fan friendly (parents).
Tracks want looping, but not lapping
European tracks usually have 2k loops
Not crossing the road would be positive
NCAA recommends maintaining 30’ width. Current width is not causing problems – ok for
regional and Div. 2.
Current distance is 5k
6, 8, 10k distances currently don’t have.
Course could use power outlets
Pavilion is needed, but not necessarily a press area. Needs to have a map of the course
and tiered awards stage. Needs PA System
Great American event has a 4-5,000 attendance. About 2,500 + 1,600 athletes.
“Pie in the Sky” Wish list”
 Permanent finish line structure
 Crowd control – keep parents from crossing course
 WiFi – for opertations and to mount cameras on the course – video could be streamed to
the web or to a video board in the park.
 Mats to cover any road crossing
 Foot bridge over to the south parcel
 Greenway easements from developers on the south parcel
Other notes
 Needs a longer run up @ finish line for Nationals
 Feedback from others suggest too many rocks on our start / finish
 Some call it a track because of the crush and run surface may be a little too fast
 Perhaps a play area or golf Frisbee course at this location.
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 55
Appendix – A4
Meeting Minutes – Athletic Committee
Cary Parks Recreation and Cultural Resources Department
Athletic Committee Meeting
July 29, 2010
Cary Town Hall, Room 1130
Call to Order/Roll Call
Ed Langan called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Members Present – Ed Langan, Jeff Trendel, Randall Bennett, Walker Reagan, Andy McRee, Pete Burke,
King Prather, Larry Miller, Ken Berry, Taylor Slade
Absent – Tom Griffin, Caycee Dorrier
Staff – Ted Jeffcoate, Paul Kuhn
Adoption of Agenda
The committee reviewed the July agenda.
Action: Pete Burke made a motion to accept the July agenda, second by Jeff Trendel, motion carried by a
unanimous vote.
Adoption of Minutes
The committee reviewed the May minutes.
Action: Walker Reagan made a motion to accept the May minutes, second by Larry Miller, motion carried by
a unanimous vote.
Public Speaks Out
None
PRCR Advisory Board Update
At their most recent meeting, the members of the Advisory Board toured the downtown arts building under
construction. Board members were impressed with the facility, and pleased that everything appears to be
moving along on schedule.
League Representative Reports
Baseball – Pete Burke – No report
Softball – King Prather – No report
Girls Basketball – Larry Miller – No report
Boys Basketball – Ken Berry – No report
Teen Council Report – Taylor Slade – No report
Staff Reports – Ted Jeffcoate – No report
WakeMed Soccer Park Master Plan discussion & recommendation
Staff distributed a handout that contained a text change from the report originally distributed at the May
meeting. The small change clarified the parking situation as contained in the Master Plan. Staff indicated
that, if recommended, the Master Plan would be taken to the Advisory Board at their August meeting.
Walker Reagan asked whether there were plans to widen Chatham Street. Staff did not know of any
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 56
immediate plans, and indicated that stadium expansion to 10,000 could be accommodated without a
widening of Chatham. If the stadium is expanded to 15,000, Chatham will need to be widened. Walker
asked for a recap of how the stadium would be expanded, for those who did not attend the May meeting.
Andy McRee asked what the NCAA and ACC requirements were for the stadium. Staff indicated that
10,000 seats were needed, and larger team room space was needed. Ed Langan asked how many
competing facilities there are nationwide. Staff indicated that the master planners looked at 6-12 similar
facilities nationwide, and that WakeMed Soccer Park is in the middle of that group by capacity. Randall
Bennett asked whether the extension of Trinity Road is imminent. Staff indicated that it was not, and that
extension would depend on other market forces.
Action:
Larry Miller made motion to recommend the plan, seconded by Walker Reagan, passed by unanimous vote.
Spring Baseball/Softball Issues
Staff indicated that the spring baseball and softball season went well. However, there was a conflict
following the protest of a Colt league tournament semi-final. A team played a farm team player more than
they played a regular team member, which is in violation of the farm team rules. The proscribed penalty,
which was enforced at the tournament game, is a forfeit. Some parents associated with the team that lost
by forfeit did not take the decision well, believing the penalty to be excessive. The committee members
discussed whether changes to rules or procedures for farm teams would be appropriate. Walker Reagan
asked whether the scorekeeper could help coaches track playing time, as they do in basketball. Pete Burke
sympathized with the coach, as he has seen that happen accidentally in the past, but believes the
responsibility should remain with the coach to follow the rule. Larry Miller, King Prather, and Randall
Bennett all indicated that they felt the game forfeiture was an appropriate penalty. Several committee
members expressed a willingness to make recommendations on any rule changes staff would like to
consider.
Maintaining quality coaching staff
Staff described a situation toward the end of the youth softball season in which an 18 & Under coach
displayed very unsportsmanlike conduct following his team’s final regular season game. Staff’s decision
was to suspend the coach for the post-season tournament. Staff also discussed a Pony baseball coach
who, it is clear, lacks the knowledge and teaching ability to coach older players. Staff indicated that both of
these situations help illustrate the fact that some changes to the coach selection and training process need
to be considered. Pete Burke suggested that the athletic committee and/or staff might interview all coaches
new to a league. King Prather indicated that the great majority of coaches are placed appropriately, but that
a system needs to be in place to handle problem coaches. He suggested rigorous use of independent
reviews of coaches and parental feedback. Walker Reagan stressed the importance of having a quality
training program for coaches who are having problems. Ken Berry stressed the importance of making sure
any criteria for removing coaches are objective. Several committee members agreed that maintaining the
highest quality coaching staff is very important, and they would happy to help in any way they can.
Adjourned 7:09 p.m.
WakeMed Soccer Park
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Appendix – A5
Meeting Minutes – PRCR Advisory Board
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Advisory Board
MEETING MINUTES
DRAFT
August 2, 2010, 5:15 p.m.
Cary Town Hall – Conference Room #11130
316 North Academy Street – Cary, NC 27513
www.townofcary.org
Attendance: Dennis Hoadley, Chair; Jeff Boucher; Robert Bush; Sal Cammarata; Tullie Johnson; Ed
Langan; David Lindquist; Neema Patel; Kay Struffolino; Teen Council Representative; Don Frantz, Council
Liaison
Staff: William Davis; Dwayne Jones; Doug McRainey; Linda Smith; Gail Taylor; Mark Johns; Larry
Dempsey, Public Works.
I. Call to Order/Roll Call – Denny Hoadley, Chair
II. Adoption of the August 2, 2010 Meeting Agenda – Denny Hoadley, Chair
ACTION: Kay made a motion to approve the August agenda as presented; David Lindquist seconded the
motion. The motion carried by a unanimous vote.
III. Adoption of June 7, 2010 Meeting Minutes – Denny Hoadley, Chair
ACTION: Kay noted two spelling corrections and with that noted, made a motion to approve the June 7th
minutes; David Lindquist seconded the motion. The motion carried by a unanimous vote.
Chair Denny Hoadley shared a thank you note from former PRCR Director Mary Henderson for her
retirement gift from board members.
--Proclamation: July National Parks and Recreation Month in Cary – Chair Denny Hoadley accepted the
proclamation at the July council meeting. Town Council Member Don Frantz presented the Proclamation
on behalf of the Mayor and Council and made favorable comments about the boards’ work in helping to
make Cary one of the greatest places to live.
IV. Public Speaks Out - None
V. Special Presentation
► Woolly Adelgids/Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve – Larry Dempsey, Facility Division Manager,
Public Works
Recreation Manager Dwayne Jones passed out copies of the press release telling of the recent discovery of
Hemlock Woolly Adelgids at Hemlock Bluffs.
Larry Dempsey, Facility Division Manager for Public Works and the project manager for treating these
insects gave an overview of the discovery and the treatment process.
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 58
The insects have impacted about 11 of the Preserve’s 234 Eastern Hemlock trees and, if left unchecked,
will kill Hemlocks by feeding at the base of their needles preventing nutrients from flowing to the needless.
Mr. Dempsey noted that the Town is collaborating with the divisions of the NC Department of
Environment and Natural Resources, the United States Forest Services, North Carolina State University;
Bartlett Tree Experts and others to finalize a multi-phased approach to eliminate existing Adelgids.
Laura White, Facility Manager and Mark Johns, Naturalist were commend for proactively updating the
Hemlock Woolly Adelgid management plan (created in 2005) and the recent infestation discovery during
their Hemlock Tree inventory.
The Preserve will remain open to the public, treatment, nor do the insects, pose any threats to people, pets
or other plants.
Citizens wishing to share ideas, questions, comments or concerns about the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid at
Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve may email [email protected] or call (919) 387-5980. For regular
updates and project information, visit Woolly Adelgid at www.townofcary.org and follow the Town on
Twitter @TownofCary.
VI. LAND DEDICATION – Doug McRainey, Parks Planning Manager - None
VII. Reports
►Administration
-- WakeMed Soccer Park Facility Master Plan – Paul Kuhn, Senior Parks Planner
Paul presented the Plan to this Board at the June meeting for review and it comes before the Board this
evening for action. Paul noted the Master Plan was approved by the Athletics Committee at its July
meeting. Pending action by this Board, the Plan will move forward to Town Council in September.
Mr. Kuhn made reference to Board member concerns with regard to traffic flow and parking with the
proposed increased stadium seating. Paul addressed those concerns in Attachment 1 of the minutes.
MOTION: Kay Struffolino made a motion to accept the WakeMed Soccer Park Facility Master Plan as
proposed at the June meeting, including the edits (Attachment 1); the motion was seconded by Tullie
Johnson.
Discussion: Board members asked about NCAA requirements for seating. It was noted that this plan
meets the current minimum seating requirement of 10,000. Parks Planner Paul Kuhn noted that this plan
can ultimately, incrementally provide for seating 15,000. The bid packet guarantees a minimum of 10,000
and that we will offer seating for the number of tickets sold beyond 10,000 with temporary seating.
Athletics Manager William Davis noted that Cary is currently competing with 5 solid venues for NCAA
events. Also noted, that even with more seating; Cary may still loose the bid as more stadiums come
onboard each year.
Mr. Davis did comment that other major conferences return to Cary; they like the locations and working
with staff.
Parks Planning Manager Doug McRainey commented that the Team Facility will go back to Council
requesting that concession funding be appropriated for designing the Team Facility and
Additional funds are anticipated from the Hotel Occupancy Tax. Paul commented that the Town continues
to look for opportunities to purchase land between the facility and Interstate 40.
ACTION: The motion carried unanimously. Chair Denny Hoadley commended Paul Kuhn for his work
on the Master Plan.
►Public Meetings - None
WakeMed Soccer Park
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►Staff Reports –
PR11-01
Artwork Donations from Don Mertz and LD (Lori) White/Town Council (7/15)
►Parks Planning
--Greenways Committee Report – Robert Bush, Chair
Robert noted two presenters at the July meeting: 1) Karen Gray, Deputy Town Clerk explained emails and
public records and 2) Deanna Boone, Deputy Public Information Officer talked about the Use of Social
Media.
The Committee talked about the renovations taking place at Annie Jones Park and Parks Planning Manager
Doug McRainey briefed members on the process, soon to begin, for updating the Town’s Parks, Greenways
and Bikeways Master Plan.
Mr. Bush commented on the publics’ interest with ‘picture taking’ with the sculptures recently installed on
the Black Creek Greenway.
--Doug McRainey, Parks Planning Manager
Doug noted that staff is developing the Scope-of-Service for the Parks, Greenways and Bikeways Master
Plan. Staff’s goal is to submit the Request for Proposals to consultants in September; with a January 2011
‘kick-off’.
►Athletics
--Athletics Committee – Ed Langan, Chair
Ed reported the Committee voted to approve the proposed WakeMed Soccer Park Master Plan.
Additionally, the Committee is working to streamline the current Inclement Weather Policy and staff is also
working with Committee members to have a plan in place for the spring season to improve sportsmanship
among our coaches.
--Athletic Division – William Davis, Athletics Manager
William referred members to the Program Update and noted a few of the recent high profile events at Cary
facilities: Pony Nationals; USTA National Zone Team; USTA Women’s Nationals. William noted that 4
area hotels are onboard for the NCAA Championship City Program and staff recommend those hotels for
other event goers as well.
Board Chair Denny Hoadley asked if revenues from the recent events are reflected in the Manager’s
Quarterly Report. PRCR Operations Analyst Bruce Crocker provided Board members with copes of the
report.
It was noted that the naming contract for WakeMed Soccer Park expires the end of 2010.
–
►Cultural Arts
--Cultural Arts Committee – David Lindquist, Chair
David noted the Committee welcomed two teen representatives in addition to their one teen representative
returning for a second year.
Members listened to a presentation by a representative of the American Turkish Association of North
Carolina telling of their origin and their anticipation of the April 2011 3rd Annual Nazim Hikmet Poetry
Festival at the Page-Walker Arts and History Center. The Association was particularly complimentary of
the facility and staff for their support of the 2010 Festival.
Committee member Phil Shepard is coordinating planning efforts for cultural arts organizations to
participate in the Cultural Arts Row at Lazy Daze. On sale that day, historic lockers from old Cary
Elementary.
WakeMed Soccer Park
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--Festivals Committee Report – Kay Struffolino, Liaison
Kay provided members with handouts capturing committee updates for June and July. The Committee is
focusing on Lazy Daze, August 28th. Volunteers are needed to assist staff and artisans throughout the day;
volunteer information sheets were included in board member packets. Cultural Arts Manager Lyman
Collins challenged board members to continue Honorary Festival Committee Member Herb Young’s legacy
of volunteering. Herb took great pride in enlisting volunteers for our festivals.
--Cultural Arts Division – Lyman Collins, Cultural Arts Manager
Lyman remarked on several pieces of public art: 1) the two recently installed bus shelters with art
components; 2) the brick sculptural benches, first installation of a three part project that will incorporate
artwork along Black Creek Greenway; next phase, wing walls of the tunnel and four brick plinths at the
pedestrian bridge that will cross the railroad tracks
Also noted FOHB has forwarded their recommendation to the Public Art Advisory Board for the Hemlock
Bluffs gate artist.
Lyman mentioned the upcoming Marvelous Music Series identified in the brochure and also that tickets are
now on sale for the August 28th production of Shakespeares Twelfth Night at the Koka Booth Amphitheatre.
With Twelfth Night, the same day as Lazy Daze, staff is hopeful event attendees will take advantage of both
events and spend the night in Cary give a boost to the economy
Chair Denny Hoadley reintegrated the need for volunteers at Lazy Daze and asked board members to
consider helping.
►Recreation Programs
--Senior Center Report – Kay Struffolino, Liaison
Kay provided members with a handout of recent activities. Kay did note the recent 6th Annual Yard Sale
netted $572.00 for each participating senior club; largest revenue producing yard sale event for the Cary
Senior Center.
Staff continues to plan for a December celebration of the 10th Anniversary of the Cary Senior Center
facility.
--Hemlock Bluffs Report – Tullie Johnson, Liaison
Tullie provided members with a handout of recent activities noting the following:
---the Town received an REI grant for $20,000 for boardwalk repairs, trail edgers and creek bank revegetation;
---Friends of Hemlock Bluffs (FOHB) recommended an artist for the Hemlock Bluffs entrance gate. This
recommendation will go before the Public Art Advisory Board and then onto Town Council for approval;
---Two upcoming adult programs: Nature at Night/August 7th and Yoga in Nature/August 7;
---FOHB Yard Sale, Saturday, October 30th; drop off days October 28 & 29.
---Teen Council Update – Teen Representative
Teen Council Vice Chairman reported.
Members were provided with a handout of recent activities noting participation numbers for May and June:
teen participation in May: 770 members contributed 1433 volunteer hours; and in June: 254 members
contributed 1815.25 volunteer hours.
The annual Cary Teen Council Awards Picnic took place May 18th. In addition to award presentations, the
Lazy Daze Scholarship was presented to Wesley Lo.
Other notable achievements for 2010: Cary’s Teen Council was the recipient of the 2010 Voluntary Service
Award presented by the National Recreation and Park Association. Teen Council coordinator Cindi King
will accept this award at the national convention in October.
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 61
Cary will have two members on the State Youth Council this year and Cary’s Teen Council, for the 5th year
in a row, received the Most Diverse Council Award.
Teen appointments to nine Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources’ boards and committees were also
announced.
►Goals Committee Reports
---Scholarship Program – Sal Cammarata
Sal reported data for the quarter ending in June: Scholarships served 50 families through full, partial and
payment plans. Scholarships served a total of 79 participants through full; partial and payment plans.
Funding to date: Revenues, $38,728; Scholarships approved in 2010, $27,565 and a balance of $11,163.
Sal announced plans are underway for the second scholarship fundraiser; a ‘Corn-hole Toss Tournament’.
The tournament will take place September 25, at the last Railhawk season game. As plans are finalized,
further details about the event will be announced.
PRCR Advisory Board Chair Denny Hoadley asked about the Town’s involvement in the Black Creek
Watershed. Parks Planning Manager Doug McRainey noted that the Town’s Stormwater Management
Division attends the watershed meetings. Mr. McRainey will contact them for an update and also about any
plans to shut down portions of the Black Green Greenway. Mr. McRainey did note the funding will be
requested in FY12 to work with the Black Creek Watershed group.
VIII. New Business
►Annual PRCR Report to Council
Board members received a ‘draft’ staff report highlighting the PRCR Board’s activities for 2010. Board
members were asked to email Denny if they felt additional information should be included. Mr. Hoadley
did ask about capturing the contributions the teens are making not only in the community but as
board/committee representatives. Recreation Manager Dwayne Jones noted that a separate staff report to
Council would address the teens’ contributions as well as the growth of Teen Council and the impact on
staff.
Mr. Hoadley noted that at the August 26th Council meeting, he would summarize the report; talking about
the highlights; the 10-year business plan going forward; the board’s positive impact as well as plans to
continue to move forward with Safety Town as soon as funding is available..
►PRCR Committee Recruitment Schedule – Chair Denny Hoadley announced the recruitment has
begun for committee members of the Athletics; Cultural Arts and the Greenways Committee.
The deadline for applications is October 8, 2010.
►Volunteer Recognition Picnic, September 19th at Koka Booth Amphitheatre – Chair Denny Hoadley
asked Board members to mark September 19th on their calendars; invitations to the picnic will be mailed in
September.
►Citizen Board Member State Forum/Greensboro/ August 13 - Chair Denny Hoadley told Board
members that he and Dwayne Jones, Recreation Manager will be attending the Forum.
► Proclamation designating July 2010 as Park and Recreation Month in Cary – Chair Denny Hoadley
reported accepting the Proclamation earlier in the agenda.
IX. Old Business
►Board Member Information Share
--North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences – Tullie Johnson noted two exhibits: Glow, Living Lights
now open and Bug Fest 2010 will run September 11, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
--PRCR Quarterly Report – PRCR Budget Analyst Bruce Crocker provided members with the quarterly
report as requested earlier in the evening by Chair Denny Hoadley.
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 62
--Space Camp – Board member Sal Cammarata commented that his children attended space camp at
Middle Creek Community Center and thoroughly enjoyed the camp experience. Sal highly recommended
the camp and hats off to camp staff.
--Sculpture Exhibits – Cultural Arts Manager Lyman Collins reported that this month Cary Visual Arts
will be replacing the temporary sculpture exhibit on Town Hall Campus. On August 19th, the Cary
Chamber will host Business After Hours at the Page-Walker with a walking tour to view the sculptures.
X. Adjourn
ACTION: Kay Struffolino made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:45 p.m.; the motion was seconded
by Tullie Johnson. The motion carried by a unanimous vote.
Please contact the Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources with any questions about the
minutes. The e-mail address is [email protected], and the phone number is (919) 462-3961.
WakeMed Soccer Park
Page 63
Appendix – A6
Stadium Graphics
PLAZA EXPANSION
WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
LOWER LEVEL PLAN
BUILDING "C" TEAM ROOMS
KOKA BOOTH STADIUM SEATING EXPANSION
EXISTING 2,500 SEATS
LUXURY SUITES ABOVE
LUXURY SUITES ABOVE
PARKING EXPANSION
GRANSTANDS
TO SEAT 2,000
SEATING EXPANSION ABOVE
Job Code: SCSPMP
SEATING EXPANSION ABOVE
Date: DEC 09
CONCESSIONS
PLAZA ABOVE
WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
MID-LEVEL PLAN
PLAZA EXPANSION BELOW
BUILDING "C" FLEX SPACE
LUXURY SUITES
LUXURY SUITES
PARKING EXPANSION
GRANDSTAND EXPANSTION TO SEAT 2,000
GRANSTANDS
TO SEAT 2,000
CONCESSIONS PLAZA
+/- 600 SPECTATORS
Job Code: SCSPMP
Date: DEC 09
CONCESSIONS
AND TOILETS
WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
UPPER LEVEL PLAN
PLAZA EXPANSION BELOW
BUILDING "C" BELOW
LUXURY SUITES
LUXURY SUITES
PARKING EXPANSION
GRANSTANDS
TO SEAT 2,000
GRANDSTANDS TO
SEAT 1,500
Job Code: SCSPMP
Date: DEC 09
LUXURY SUITES
WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
ROOF AND CANOPY PLAN
GRANSTANDS
TO SEAT 2,000
CANOPY EXPANSION
NEW CANOPY ABOVE
CANOPY EXPANSION
GRANDSTANDS TO
SEAT 1,500
WITH CANOPY ABOVE
Job Code: SCSPMP
Date: DEC 09
EXISTING
GRANDSTANDS
LOWER LEVEL ACTIVITY AREA
NEW
CONCESSIONS PLAZA
NEW
GRANDSTANDS
WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
CONCESSIONS PLAZA AND SEATING EXPANSION
CENTER
FIELD
BLDG. A
ROOF
CANOPY AND LIGHTS
PARKING
Job Code: SCSPMP
CONCESSIONS
TOILETS
LUXURY
SUITES
Date: DEC 09
BLDG. B
PLAZA
BLDG. B
ROOF

Facility Master Plan Update

Transcription

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