HomeMy WebLinkAbout1991-07-15; City Council; 791-6; Median Improvements/water conservationPARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION - AGENDA BILL
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TITLE:MEDIAN IMPROVEMENTS/WATER
CONSERVATION (INFO)
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Accept and file report.
ITEM EXPLANATION:
During the June meeting, Commissioner Castner requested an informational report
relating to the installation of new City medians and landscapes in view of the current Stage
IV Water Alert/water conservation efforts. The attached report will provide relative
information regarding this issue and staff will be prepared to give a verbal presentation
and respond to any questions.
FISCAL IMPACT;
None.
EXHIBITS:
1. Memo - Median Improvements/Water Conservation Issue, July 9, 1991
3i EXHIBIT 1
July 10, 1991
TO: PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR
FROM: Parks Superintendent
MEDIAN IMPROVEMENT/WATER CONSERVATION ISSUE
The development of medians throughout Carlsbad is part of the Citywide plan for street
improvements and is an engineering standard. It is also identified in the Landscape Manual
as a requirement.
The median design of pockets of landscaping and hardscape at the 5:2 ratio was approved
by the Parks and Recreation Commission in the early 80's. The reasoning for this particular
design was to lessen the maintenance impact as well as concern for water conservation.
The plant material designated for the medians has been selected for its ease of maintenance,
hardiness and low water consumption. The irrigation systems are required to be drip or
similar low water usage/high efficiency systems.
The installation of the landscaping and irrigation at the time of median construction seems
to be the best method. Irrigation lines must be installed underneath, the hardscape. To
install irrigation after the hardscape would be impractical.
We realize there is a current Stage IV Water Alert in effect, but this does not eliminate
landscaping from new installations. It is necessary though to provide xeriscape, drought
tolerant landscapes which the medians represent.
The installation of medians is a requirement of the developers of each particular area.
There have been areas where median improvement has been postponed i.e. Alga Road.
These areas have been subject to substantial negative criticism.
The intent of the median is to provide visual relief, safety and beautification of the City. El
Camino Real has been designated as a scenic corridor.
DOUG DUNCANSON
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