Project Narrative Template
Directions:
1. Complete all sections in this form. Even if a section is not applicable to your project, write “N/A”. Do not leave any sections blank.
2. Provide succinct and complete responses in each section. Do not assume that the application reviewer is familiar with your community. The Narrative should include all pertinent information not already stated or explained sufficiently in other application sections.
3. THIS FORM SHALL NOT EXCEED 15 PAGES. If you need additional space, you can delete these directions, and the directions within each section below. Do not change the font size in this form to include more information.
4. Save this form as a PDF and attach the PDF to your Smartsheet form application, in the section “ATTACHMENTS” at the end.
1. PROJECT LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION
This public space project, Ellis Lake Park Enhancement project, is in the center of the city of Marysville.
The park is bounded by SR 20 (9th Street) to the South, SR 70 (B Street) to the East, 16th Street to the North and D Street to the West. Ellis Lake Park has significant historical, recreational, and economic development importance to the city of Marysville, the residents of the Yuba-Sutter region and serves as a beautiful introduction for the city of Marysville and the counties of Yuba and Sutter. Originally the lake and park area were once a spillway of the Feather River which was converted to a man-made lake recreation area in 1924 and was completed through President Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal Plan. Ellis Lake park is highly visible and bounded on two sides by two state highways, SR 20 on the East and South sides of Ellis Lake Park and SR 70 on the East side of Ellis Lake Park and Hard Rock Ballpark.
According to Caltrans commuter traffic counts at mile marker 14.710 the monthly average daily traffic is 43,500. The enhancements to the park would include a children’s play area, covered stage with power and water and picnic tables for events, an ADA compliant parking area and secure bicycle parking, outdoor fitness course, enhanced fishing areas, wayfinding and educational signage, outdoor art displays, installation of a 6’ wide multi-use asphalt trail, upgrades existing light fixtures and the addition of a Bioswale.
The park is highly accessible to all residents of Marysville, within walking distance from the downtown corridor and residential areas, easy cycling distance, and has parking available in and around the park.
The park is also on Yuba-Sutter Transit Rout 4A Marysville Loop with two stops within walking distance.
Project Site Ownership: Owned in fee simple by Applicant.
Total combined park acres described above: 39.7 acres
Physical street address: Ellis Lake Park does not have a physical street address but is located at Latitude: -121.5881 Longitude: 39.1491 The park is bounded by 9th St. to the South, B St. to the East, 16th St. to the North, D St. to the West.
County of Current Project: Yuba
2. PROJECT MAP
Proposed Elements:
The project will benefit the resident’s and quality of life for youth, seniors, and families by improving physical activity, cultural enrichment, and environmental education.
Recreational Features description: The project will include new recreation features, renovate existing recreation features and add new major support amenities as identified below:
PROPOSED RECREATION FEATURE #1
Three play-pocket stations for Children surrounded by fencing to protect the children and define the play area. (New). The region does not have a lot of no-cost amenities for children and their families to come together to enjoy a day outdoors which provides activities. These play-pocket stations will provide safe play areas for children while families enjoy a baseball game at the Hard Rock Park located adjacent to Ellis Lake Park, a family picnic or a function/event on the event island. The play-pocket stations is located on the north side of the park (See Attachment N - Concept Design) PROPOSED RECREATION FEATURE #2
Event Island: Covered stage with power and water for events and picnic tables (New). The event island will provide a venue for special events such as “Music in the Park”, weddings, community service club events, such as a fishing derby, and more. Adding water and power to the island will make this area extremely attractive to event planners as a venue for their project. The event island is located in the north side of lake. (See Attachment N - Concept Design) PROPOSED RECREATION FEATURE #3
Parking Lot enhancements: ADA compliant parking area added (New) and Secure Bicycle Parking (New) An ADA compliant parking area will provide parking for those with disabilities and increase overall usage for all. Secure bike parking stations will provide cyclists the optimal level of security to enjoy the exercise amenities, picnic and fishing areas. The parking lot is located off of C Street, between 14 and 16th Streets. (See Attachment N - Concept Design) PROPOSED RECREATION FEATURE #4
Outdoor Fitness Course with four exercise stations located throughout the park near multi-use trail (New). The exercise stations will be suitable for seniors, adults and teens and provide a fun way to get families active. Not only do the fitness stations improve strength, balance and flexibility to the users, they become natural, intergenerational meeting points for people and be a great social benefit to community. This social benefit is derived in part because they are so accessible, with stations available whenever the park is open, allowing users access to a free workout whenever it is convenient. The fitness course will be located on the East side of the lake between 9th and 14th Streets. (See Attachment N - Concept Design)
PROPOSED RECREATION FEATURE #5
Fishing areas: Concrete pads and benches at edge of lake (New). Fishing areas will permit fishermen to enjoy the lake and fishing without impeding on the path for walkers and joggers. The pads will be large enough to accommodate several fishermen. These items will be located on the East side of the lake between 9th and 14th Streets. (See Attachment N - Concept Design) PROPOSED RECREATION FEATURE #6
Park and Trail-way signage (New). Wayfinding and educational signage will identify the lake to visitors and tourists and engage with users, sharing information about the lake history, unique features of the site and the city of Marysville. Monument signs will be added to two key entry ways to the park, the corner of 14 Street and SR 70 and the main entryway at 12 Street and SR 70. The purpose of the signs will provide introduction to the park. Trailway signage will be placed throughout the park at key locations not yet identified. (See Attachment N - Concept Design) PROPOSED RECREATION FEATURE #7
Sculptures or other outdoor art displays (New). Partnering with Yuba-Sutter Arts and Culture, art projects will be installed around the lake at locations not yet identified. This purpose of this element will provide beautification and engagement for park users. (See Attachment N - Concept Design) PROPOSED RECREATION FEATURE #8
Installation of a 6’ wide multi-use Asphalt trail and repair and removal of existing pathway sections (Renovation). This multi-use trail will provide a safe pathway connector to existing bicycle circulation routes including the trails located along the levees that surround Marysville. This addition will also provide a unique stop-over
point for cyclists, joggers and
walkers to the amenities of the
park. Portions of the existing
pathways around the park are
extremely narrow, become
unsafe and have limited usage
or have become unusable.
The new multi-use path will be
located on the East side of the
lake between 9th and 14th
Streets. The existing path will
be removed from this same
area. (See Attachment N -
Concept Design)
PROPOSED RECREATION
FEATURE #9
Addition of a Bioswale. (Major
Support Amenity). The
addition of this storm water
conveyance will absorb low
flows or carry runoff from
heavy rains. The bioswale will
be located at the north end of
the lake next to the improved
parking lot located on C Street
between 14th Street and 16th
Street. (See Attachment N -
Concept Design)
PROPOSED RECREATION
FEATURE #10
Upgrade existing light fixtures
to LED (Major Support
Amenity). This upgrade to
energy efficient lighting will
decrease the electric
demands and improve safety
for users. The lighting scones
are located around the entire
lake. (See Attachment N -
Concept Design)
3. PHOTO OF EXISTING CONDITIONS AT PROJECT SITE(S)
(REPLACE TEXT) Include a photo of the existing conditions for each project site(s). Just include one photo per site here. If you’d like to include more photos, you can include them in the “Other Materials” attachment. No photo should include the faces of individuals.
Ellis Lake Park Enhancement: Arial view Looking South. See more photos included in “Other Materials” Attachment
4. DEMONSTRATED COMMUNITY NEED AND POTENTIAL OUTCOMES
(REPLACE TEXT) Below, briefly describe the demonstrated community need for the project and the project’s expected outcomes that relate to the four goals of the CCLGP program. Specifically, describe the existing conditions of the project location(s), and how the project meets one or more of the four program goals below. The more program goals that a project substantively meets, the more competitive it is. Also, the more severe the community need is, the more competitive the project is. Address each goal separately below. If your project does not meet one of the below goals, write “N/A” in that section.
Goal 1. Reduce the Amount of Waste and Debris
Describe the types of existing waste and debris, and improvements to be made to prevent or reduce this litter. Also describe any litter pickup activities and who will conduct these activities. Describe how the litter removal will improve access to use of a public space(s).
There has been a serious issue with illegal dumping of trash around the lake and ballpark. Currently there are unsecured waste bins located in and around the park which are open and accessible to anyone.
Trash has prevented usage and access to areas of the park especially those who are disabled and rely on ADA compliant access areas. The addition of a covered large garbage bin will provide a beautification enhancement to eliminate trash been strewn over the park area. Immediate removal of illegally dumped trash will be performed by volunteers from Beale Air Force Base and Community Based Organizations (CBOs). Ongoing maintenance and trash removal will be performed by city staff and Yuba-Sutter Recology.
Goal 2. Beautify and Improve Public Space
Describe the need for beautification or access improvements, including enhanced greening measures that provide shade, reduce the urban heat island effect, or use native, low-water plants. Identify any enhancements to be made, rehabilitation to be performed, or new installations to be placed.
The proposed recreation features, #2, #3, #6, #7, #9 and #10, will greatly enhance and beautify the park making the park more attractive and increase usage by visitors and residents.
PROPOSED RECREATION FEATURE #2
Event Island: Covered stage with power and water for events and picnic tables (New). The event island will provide a venue for special events such as “Music in the Park”, weddings, community service club events, such as a fishing derby, and more. Adding water and power to the island will make this area extremely attractive to event planners as a venue for their project. The event island is located in the north side of lake.
PROPOSED RECREATION FEATURE #3
Parking Lot enhancements: ADA compliant parking area added (New) and Secure Bicycle Parking (New) An ADA compliant parking area will provide parking for those with disabilities and increase overall usage for all. Secure bike parking stations will provide cyclists the optimal level of security to enjoy the exercise amenities, picnic and fishing areas. The parking lot is located off of C Street, between 14 and 16th Streets.
PROPOSED RECREATION FEATURE #6
Park and Trail-way signage (New). Wayfinding and educational signage will identify the lake to visitors and tourists and engage with users, sharing information about the lake history, unique features of the site and the city of Marysville. Monument signs will be added to two key entry ways to the park, the corner of 14 Street and SR 70 and the main entryway at 12 Street and SR 70. The purpose of the signs will provide introduction to the park. Trailway signage will be placed throughout the park at key locations not yet identified.
PROPOSED RECREATION FEATURE #9
Addition of a Bioswale. (Major Support Amenity). The addition of this storm water conveyance will absorb low flows or carry runoff from heavy rains. The bioswale will be located at the north end of the lake next to the improved parking lot located on C Street between 14th Street and 16th Street.
PROPOSED RECREATION FEATURE #10
Upgrade existing light fixtures to LED (Major Support Amenity). This upgrade to energy efficient lighting will decrease the electric demands and improve safety for users. The lighting scones are located around the entire lake
Goal 3. Improving Public Spaces for Walking and Recreation Describe the need for walking and recreation improvements in your project location(s), and how your project will implement these improvements while also enhancing public health, cultural connection, and/or community placemaking.
The proposed recreation features, #1, #2, #5, #7, #8, #9 and #10, will create opportunities of visitors and residents to improve health and quality of life by walking, riding and utilizing the exercise stations.
Physical activity is extremely important for one’s overall health and wellbeing. Frequent physical activity is vital for prevention of disease and maintenance of a strong and healthy heart and mind Goal 4. Advance Equity for Underserved Communities
Applicants must explain which underserved community will benefit from their project, how this community was identified, and how the project directly benefits that community. the addition of all the features described in A.1 will both directly and indirectly provide demonstrable benefit to the underserved community of Marysville.
Communities experiencing social vulnerability and poor health outcomes are often overloaded with fast food and other establishments where unhealthy food is sold. Length of Life indicators compared to State benchmarks: In the Yuba-Sutter area, child mortality, premature age-adjusted mortality, stroke mortality is substantially higher when compared to state benchmarks. Quality of Life indicators compared to state benchmarks show the percentage of total civilian noninstitutionalized population with a disability, poor mental health days and poor physical health days are substantially higher than state benchmarks. Health behavior indicators when compared to state benchmarks show the population of the region has lack of adequate access to locations for physical activity. (Source: Rideout 2019 Community Health Needs Assessment).
The City of Marysville is heavily reliant on three industry sectors, the largest sector is Health Care and Social assistance, employing 2,355 workers, Public Administration (1,912 workers) and Educational Services (730 workers) which comprises of 62 percent of its workforce. Enhancing and improving the Ellis Lake Park would provide an attraction for tourism and visitors which would greatly enhance diversification of industry and bolster existing Retail Trade and Accommodation and Food Services businesses. This diversification would enable the city to withstand economic downturns or disasters.
One hundred percent of the funds will benefit the community. Calculations were based on the project’s relative population benefit to underserved communities.
5. PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
The city of Marysville and community partner, Yuba-Sutter Economic Development Corporation designed and developed three public engagements methods and are identified in the below table.
These suggestions were incorporated into the project. (See Attachment N - Concept Design) Method
Number
Engagement
Method
Meetings
Date/Year
Meeting Type,
Venue,
Address/Online
Describe the BROAD
REPRESENTATION
and number of participants that
were included in the design input
process (youth, seniors, working
adults, etc.).
Number of
Participant
s
1. Survey 5/24/2021 Online Survey was sent 3900 stakeholders, residents, public sector
representatives. Respondents
represented 75% working adults and
their families, 25% were seniors or
retirees.
993
2 Public
Meeting #1
6/19/2021 In-person,
Outdoor at North
Ellis Lake Parking
lot, Marysville,
CA
There were 36 attendees from Yuba
and Sutter Counties. Most of the
attendees were working adults (60%)
or seniors (34%). Most of the
attendees represented children or
grandchildren (50%). Veterans
represented 8%.
36 3 Public
Meeting
07/13/2021 In-person,
Marysville
Council
Chambers, 526 C
Street Marysville,
CA 95901
There were 30 attendees from Yuba
and Sutter Counties. Most of the
attendees were working adults (60%)
or seniors (40%)
30 TOTAL 1059
.
Method #1 Participants were requested to answer a single question with a choice of choosing their top three priorities. There were eight possible supplied answers as well as a “other” option where they could input their own suggestions. Survey was advertised online and promoted/disseminated by community partner, Yuba Sutter Economic Development Corporation. The specific approved design ideas that originated from this method were included in the final project.
1. Wider sidewalks for walking/jogging/biking
2. Children’s play area
3. Exercise stations
4. Outdoor entertainment venue
5. Fishing amenities such as piers or jetties
6. Signage for historical or cultural information
7. Address security and safety issues
8. Trash facilities
9. Improved lighting
Method #2 The public was encouraged to attend, and the meeting was promoted on Facebook, announced in the two local papers, flyers were posted around the lake two weeks in advance of the meeting, and promoted by community partner, Yuba Sutter Economic Development Corporation. The specific approved design ideas that originated from this method were included in the final project.
1. Walkability/Biking Improvement
2. Exercise Par Course
3. Connection to other trailways/bike paths.
Method #3 The public was encouraged to attend, and the meeting was promoted on Facebook, announced in the two local papers, flyers were posted around the lake two weeks in advance of the meeting, and promoted by community partner, Yuba Sutter Economic Development Corporation. The specific approved design ideas that originated from this method were included in the final 1.
Interpretive cultural artwork, murals and signage
2. Put child play areas closer together and fence for child and parental security
3. Art around the lake depicting history
4. Install drinking fountains or water stations
5. Widen/repair walkways
6. PROJECT DELIVERABILITY
(REPLACE TEXT) Briefly describe project deliverability, including the applicant’s confidence that the project will be completed, opened to the public, and all implementation funds expended by June 30, 2026. Any major risks to the project’s Scope, Cost, and Schedule should be identified, as well as ways that the applicant will mitigate those risks. For instance, all permits required for the project should be identified in the Narrative, and those permits that have not been approved at the time of application submittal should be noted. For any permit not obtained, explain which steps your agency has completed so far in the permitting process, and how your agency will complete the steps while staying on track to complete the project by June 30, 2026. For infrastructure projects, also describe all outstanding pre-construction work required to deliver this project by its completion date. Projects with less pre-construction work are more shovel-ready and are more competitive. Also, projects that have obtained all permits or do not need permits at time of application are more competitive.
The project is within city property. Building permits, if required would be issued by the City. Though all work should be able to be performed within City property, Ellis Lake does abut Caltrans ROW (to the east - B street/highway 70 and south (9th street/Highway 20), but do not require temporary encroachment permits through Caltrans.
No significant risks beyond the typical project construction risks, such as price escalation/unforeseen costs which are mitigated via a contingency reserve, weather delays (there will be some allowance built into schedule). CEQA analysis will be completed for the proposed project by end of February 2026.
7. MAINTENACE PLAN
(REPLACE TEXT) If applicable, briefly describe how the improvement(s) will be maintained. Identify the lifespan of the improvement(s), the activities to maintain them throughout their lifespans, the resources to fund maintenance activities, and the commitment of those resources. This information is required for physical project improvements and litter abatement events (i.e., there needs to be an explanation of the strategy for preventing litter from accumulating again, after the abatement event). This information is also required for any artwork or vegetation that is part of the proposal. If the proposal includes vegetation, details on how plant establishment will be implemented need to be provided. A maintenance plan is not required for educational programs, such as social media campaigns. If your project does not require maintenance, write N/A here.
Marysville currently maintains 277 acres of parks/green space. Of this, approximately 71 acres are community and neighborhood parks. Funding for park maintenance is through the Public Works Department (Facilities and Parks) budget which is funded through the City of Marysville’s general fund.
The FY2021/2022 Facilities and Parks budget is $750, 531, with 3 budgeted FTE’s.
The green space at Ellis Lake is currently maintained by City Parks Maintenance staff and an additional staff member was budgeted for FY 2021/22. The improvements to Ellis Lake are anticipated to create minimal additional maintenance costs with some additional costs related to new amenities/play features. The new amenities require minimal maintenance (minor repairs related to wear, vandalism, etc.). With the addition of staff, the additional maintenance activities can be absorbed in the department’s existing operation. Rental and reservation options are also anticipated to raise sufficient funding to cover the cost of maintenance for the increased use associated with rentals.
Partners are also being pursued to enhance the programing and maintenance within Ellis Lake and within parks in general in keeping with the recommendations of the Marysville Parks and Open Space Master Plan, as approved in May of 2019.
The city has provided funding for annual maintenance in its general funding account as identified in the table below.
Description Average Monthly Annual
Landscaping/Litter control/General Maintenance
- Personnel Costs (4,300 Hrs @$28.17/hr) $10,085 $121,020 - Materials/other $1,250 $15,000
Utilities (Electricity and Potable Water) $3,333 $40,000 Routine Repairs to amenities/play equipment, etc. $417 $5,000 Portable restrooms $200 $2,400
Grand Total costs: $15,285 $183,420