HomeMy WebLinkAbout121124-05.1
PARKS, RECREATION AND ARTS COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
5.1
TO: Parks, Recreation and Arts Commission December 11, 2024
SUBJECT: Consider approval of the Proposed All-Wars Memorial Enhancements
BACKGROUND:
In 2004, the All-Wars Memorial (AWM) located within Oak Hill Park was created to
remember all those who served and gave their life to this country. The AWM is a living
memorial "dedicated to all who sacrificed to assure our freedom." In addition to being a
memorial, it provides an opportunity for the survivors of war to recognize and honor
men and women who returned from the direct experience of war and families, friends,
and loved ones who indirectly experienced the impacts of war. The AWM was created
through the cooperation of the Town of Danville and the All-Wars Memorial Board and
contributions from Braddock and Logan, Joe Rafael, Admiral Tiernan, and current AWM
President David Behring.
DISCUSSION
In an effort to keep the AWM in good condition and add to its ambiance, the AWM Board
has proposed various additions, repairs, and enhancements to the site. The proposed
enhancements are contained in Attachment A, the All Wars Memorial Master Plan
document. The improvements and enhancements include the following:
• An entry monument marker located near the entrance to the AWM site.
• Two seat walls along the park’s walking path nearest the AWM site.
• Removal of decomposed granite and installation of pervious pavement.
• Creation and installation of America’s War Casualty Panel from the Revolutionary
War to the War on Terrorism.
• Installation of interpretive signs along the AWM walkway.
• Installation of new granite quotation markers at the healing circle.
• Installation of new benches at the healing circle.
• Removal and replacement of 4400 sq ft of existing lawn.
• Undertaking annual planting changes.
• Trimming of existing pear trees
• Undertaking electrical improvements.
• Undertaking drainage improvements behind the stone wall.
• Considering the possible replacement of oxidized bluestone on the healing circle
The Town staff (including RACS, Maintenance, and Engineering) have been able to
review the plans and are generally supportive of the proposed improvements, subject to
the following comments:
• The Town must ensure that the proposed replacement of the existing lawn can be
sustained and maintained properly, as this exceeds the Town’s level of committed
maintenance for this amenity.
• There must be a planting plan submitted and updated as necessary to address the
considerable amount of planting proposed (staff understands that the AWM
Board is considering options).
• Current plan show numerous monument-type signs to be located throughout the
park. Staff has expressed a preference for AWM signage not to overwhelm park
users. For that reason, staff has expressed support for adding one additional
monument sign to be located near the entrance to the AWM. This one additional
sign is felt to be consistent with and in keeping with the overall theme of the park.
• Though not reflected in the plans, the AWM Board has also requested
consideration to add a flagpole adjacent to the Community Center. This would be
in addition to the flagpole on the hill at the reflection area. The AWM Board
proposes to install a 25 to 35-foot tall flagpole adjacent to the deck in the lower
sand area at the Community Center. This flagpole would include power and
lighting. The veterans would utilize it on Memorial Day and would otherwise be
the Town’s responsibility. Prior to any installation, the proposed location would
need to be further examined to ensure it abides by the government code, which
addresses the placement of flagpoles with US and state flags at public buildings.
If approved by the Commission, Town staff will work with representatives from the
AWM Board to ensure the plan complies with all Town requirements before proceeding
with proposed enhancements.
RECOMMENDATION
Consider approval of the Proposed All-Wars Memorial Enhancements.
Prepared by:
Henry Perezalonso
Recreation, Arts & Community Services Director
Reviewed by:
Dave Casteel
Maintenance Services Director
Attachments: A – All Wars Memorial Master Plan