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Parks & Recreation

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1. What do I need to do to apply for a HEIGHTS membership?

You will need to have proof of residency (occupancy permit, unpaid utility bill, current year’s personal property tax receipt), fill out the forms and pay with either cash, check or charge (MasterCard or Visa).

2. What do I need to prove residency?

Residents of Richmond Heights, Maplewood, or Brentwood will need a current photo ID along with one of the following: unpaid utility bill, last year's personal property tax receipt, or current occupancy permit.

3. Who can use the facility?

The facility is available to all users, regardless of residency. You do not have to live in the city of Richmond Heights to use THE HEIGHTS.

4. Who receives resident rates?

Anyone who lives or owns property within the cities of Maplewood and Richmond Heights. Brentwood residents may receive resident rates on memberships and programs. All members of THE HEIGHTS also receive member rates on programs.

5. Why do residents of Brentwood and Maplewood receive resident rates?

The cities of Brentwood and Maplewood are allowing their residents to buy memberships at resident rates. The individual cities then pay a subsidy to the City of Richmond Heights to cover the difference between the non-resident and resident rates.

6. What is a resident family?

A resident family consists of the members living in a household. This must be proved by a current occupancy permit.

7. What is a non-resident family?

A non-resident family is defined as 2 married adults and 2 dependent children under the age of 24, living in the same household. Additional members living in that same household can be added at an additional $30 per person charge.

8. Why are there so many rules to use the facility?

The rules are always geared toward the protection and safety of our guests and facility. There are many areas of the facility in which we are not allowed to make exceptions to rules without assumption of liability.

9. Can I register on-line?

At this time we cannot accept on-line registrations for programs or for any memberships. Please visit us at THE HEIGHTS or call 314-645-1476 to register for programs.

10. Why can’t I register at THE HEIGHTS for Brentwood programs or facilities?

Both cities maintain their own databases. We do offer resident rates to both cities’ residents, and we offer a combined brochure, but you must register at the facility that the program is being held.

11. Do you offer scholarships?

Residents of Richmond Heights and Maplewood can apply for scholarships. Scholarships are awarded three times per year: January 1, April 1, and August 1. The maximum award is $300 per family per year. For more specifics on who qualifies for scholarships please go to the forms area and download the Scholarship Application.

12. Do you offer inclusion services for people with disabilities?

The Cities of Brentwood, Maplewood and Richmond Heights support the Americans with Disabilities Act and welcome everyone to participate regardless of race, religion, sex, national origin or disability. If assistance is needed, call Maggie Brown at 314-645-1476 or use relay Missouri by calling 800-735-2966. TDD is available 8:30 a.m-5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

13. Do you have towel service?

Yes we rent towels at THE HEIGHTS. The cost is $1 and you will get a $.50 refund when you return the towel.

14. Can I purchase a gift certificate?

We sell gift certificates in any denominations which can be used for programs or memberships. Please stop by the guest services desk to purchase your certificate.

15. Can I rent a locker by the month or year?

Unfortunately we have a limited number of lockers for use in our facility. Therefore all items must be taken with you when you leave. For your security we ask that you bring a lock or purchase one at our front desk.

16. What is your refund policy?

If you are not satisfied with a class or service or are unable to participate for health reasons, please contact us immediately in writing. Our policy is to provide a 100% refund to anyone who makes a written request prior to the class or program start date. After a class or membership has started a prorated refund may be given.

17. How do I contact van services to schedule a ride on the bus?

For reservations, call (314) 655-3667 between 8:30 am and 5 pm at least one day before you need a ride. Service is not available on weekends.

PARC offers free transportation to resident adults 55 and older and to disabled residents of Richmond Heights and Maplewood. Before you can use the service, you must complete a “Van Rider Information” sheet. Call (314) 655-3667 to request the form and an information packet.

18. Can I rent out the aquatic center for my group or family?

Absolutely. Simply call guest services at 645-1476 for assistance and they can help you.

19. What features are inside your aquatic center?

THE HEIGHTS aquatic center contains a two-story waterslide, lazy river, vortex,
play structure, and three lap lanes. We also have a sauna, steam room, spa, and a concession stand.

20. Can I wait on the deck while my child swims?

Yes, however, if your child is under the age of 9, they must be directly supervised in the water by someone who is 15 years of age or older. Our lifeguards are not to directly supervise individual children.

21. Why can’t my baby wear a disposable diaper in the water?

Diapers are designed to absorb liquid. Disposable diapers have been known to explode and contaminate pool water.

22. Where is the Maplewood Family Aquatic Center located?

7550 Lohmeyer (directly behind Maplewood City Hall).

23. Who can rent rooms in the facility?

Anyone! Resident, nonresident and corporate rates are available. Please call (314) 645-1476 and ask to speak with Mary Siler, our Facility Assistant.

24. Can I bring alcohol into the facility?

If you are serving alcohol, you must use one of our preferred caterers. THE HEIGHTS does not have a liquor license. Therefore, you must go through one of our caterers who does have a license.

25. Does the City prune the trees behind my house under the power lines?

The utility companies generally have a utility easement in the area where their utility lines are located, whether it be above or below ground. The adjacent property owner is restricted in what is allowed within this easement (sheds, driveways, structures). Any vegetation (trees, shrubs, etc.) which are planted within this easement by the property owner are the property owners responsibility, as long as they do not interfere with the provision of the utility. At the point the vegetation becomes a safety risk, the utility company may prune, cut back and/or remove the vegetation. The City of Richmond Heights does not contract for or provide pruning of this vegetation or the trees on private property. If you notice a problem with trees or vegetation that has grown closer than 10’ of the utility lines, contact Ameren-UE at (314) 342-1000
Generally, it is a good rule of thumb to not plant trees or other vegetation which will grow up into utility lines and require ongoing pruning and maintenance.

26. What parks are located in Richmond Heights?

A.B. Green Park (Dale Ave. & Laclede Station Rd.) has two lighted tennis courts, two lighted outdoor basketball courts, two playgrounds (2-5 tot-lot & 5-12 playground), two pavilions (West has BBQ pits & picnic tables for 50; East has picnic tables for 30), one lighted multi-use sport field and restrooms.
Highland Park (Highland Terrace just north of I-64) has one playground, small picnic shelter and BBQ pit.

27. When is A.B. Green Park closed?

A.B. Green Park is closed each year from December 1 through April 1. During the operating season the park is open from sunrise to 9:30 pm each day. For more information about field and pavilion rentals call (314) 645-1476.

28. Can I plant trees in the area between the City street and sidewalk in front of my house?

The City of Richmond Heights currently provides planting and maintenance of trees located along city streets between the sidewalk and the street. If you would like to request a tree be planted or notice a problem with a tree within that area, please contact our Park Operations Superintendent at (314) 655-3656. Planting of trees within the right of way is covered under Municipal Ordinance 255.140.

29. Can I prune or cut down a tree between the City street and sidewalk in front of my house?

No, City Street Trees and trees located on other City property are protected by Municipal Ordinance 255.110 and 255.150. If tree removal is for single family residential development of a single property, the property owner may request that the tree be removed. The City Forester will review the proposed plan and make recommendation for further action prior to work beginning. Municipal Ordinance 255.210 protects trees and shrubs located on public property and rights of way.

30. How can I help get more trees planted along city streets?

The City of Richmond Heights Park Operations Division accepts donations to our Street Tree Planting Fund for the planting and maintenance of trees located along city streets between the city street and the sidewalk. For further information about donating contact our Park Operations Superintendent at (314) 655-3656.

31. Can my family or neighborhood group adopt one of the islands or city landscaped areas in our neighborhood?

Definitely. Our Park Operations Division has opportunities for local groups to “adopt” islands, parks or other public areas for all aspects of maintenance. Planting, removing weeds, mulching, watering, ground litter pick-up are just a few. Call our Park Operations Superintendent at (314) 655-3656 for more details.

32. What are the islands or public areas the Park Operations Division maintains?

AB Green Park (Dale & Laclede Station)
Arlington Island (Arlington & Bellevue)
Big Bend Streetscape (Big Bend Blvd. planters & pots)
Brentwood Blvd. Island (center of Brentwood Blvd. in front of Crate & Barrel)
Brentwood Sign (East side of Brentwood Blvd. just north of I-64)
City Hall (1330 S. Big Bend Blvd.)
Commodore Island (Commodore & Ethel)
E. Linden Right of Way (west side of E. Linden)
Hanley Road Sign (East side of Hanley just north of West Bruno)
Hawthorne Island (Hawthorne & Arlington)
Highland Park (Highland north of I-64)
Hoover Island (Hoover & Claytonia)
Lindbergh Island (Lindbergh between Big Bend & West Bruno)
McKnight Sign (east side of McKnight just north of I-64)
Public Safety Building (7447 Dale Ave.)
Public Services Building (8108 Elinor Ave.)
Rankin Island (Rankin & Arlington)
Rupert Island (Rupert & Gray)
St. Mary’s Sign (west side of Bellevue just south of Clayton Rd.)
THE HEIGHTS (8001 Dale Ave.)
West Bruno Sign (north side of West Bruno at Lindbergh)
Winzenburg Island (Winzenburg & Terrace)
Yale Island (Yale Ave. between Wise and Glades)
Plus…various vacant lots and rights of way throughout the city.

33. Can I get wood chips, fire wood or leaf compost?

Yes, it is available self-service on a first-come, first-serve basis from our Wood Waste Recycling lot currently located at 8015 Dale Ave. Wood chips are generally available year round. Leaf compost is generally available from the end of leaf collection season until it is gone. Firewood is generally available year-round.

34. Can I get leaf compost delivered to my home in Richmond Heights?

Our Park Operations Division can deliver a truck-load of approximately 5 cubic yards to your residence within Richmond Heights for $40.00. We begin taking orders and scheduling deliveries on the November 1. All deliveries are scheduled for Fridays during the months of March and April. Payment for leaf compost delivery may be made at THE HEIGHTS during normal operating hours. For more information about this program contact our Park Operations Superintendent at (314) 655-3656.

35. Does the City offer educational classes pertaining to trees, landscaping or gardening?

Our Park Operations Division is currently working on developing classes for homeowners on the following topics: tree planting and pruning, basic soils and gardening, basic turf care, basic irrigation, and container gardening. If you or your local group would like us to offer a class for you, please look in the Parks and Recreation Department Activity Guide or contact our Park Operations Superintendent at (314) 655-3656.

36. Are there any geo-caches located in Richmond Heights parks?

Currently, none are located within a Richmond Heights park. You can check or search near-by locations at www.geocaching.com.

37. Is Richmond Heights responsible for the maintenance of Maplewood parks?

No. The City of Maplewood Public Works Department is responsible for maintenance of all Maplewood Parks and Recreation facilities. Contact the Public Works Director at (314) 645-3640.

38. Where can I get information on upcoming programs and events?

Visit us at www.richmondheights.org to view and register for programs at THE HEIGHTS. Or you can click on the link to see our current brochure in PDF format. You may also pick up a current brochure at THE HEIGHTS or the Richmond Heights City Hall.

39. What is the Community Discount Passport program?

A Community of Interest…Deserves a Community Discount. The Community Discount Passport allows you to use your HEIGHTS ID card in the community to receive discounts at area businesses. Participating businesses can be found in our seasonal brochure. More information regarding discounts and locations is available at THE HEIGHTS guest services desk.

40. How old does my child have to be to use the adult fitness center?

Youth, ages 14 and 15, can use the adult fitness center only after participating in an orientation. During the orientation, youth will learn how to use the cardiovascular and strength machines, the do’s and dont's of working out and fitness center rules. Before participating in the orientation, a parent/guardian must complete a registration packet and provide payment. The cost of the orientation is $5 for residents/members and $7 for non-residents. Orientations are by appointment only.
Anyone, 13 or under, cannot use the adult fitness center, but are encouraged to use the Work Zone.

41. Is there someone who can show me how to use the equipment in the fitness center?

All new members of THE HEIGHTS have the opportunity to receive a free fitness center orientation. We can show you how to properly and safely use the cardiovascular and strength equipment so you get the most out of your workouts. Please note that this is not a personal training session. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Nate Wilks at (314) 655-3658.

42. Is child care available during fitness classes?

Yes, if you see a toy block icon beside the class in the brochure.

43. How do I reserve a pavilion shelter or field?

Contact our guest services desk at (314) 645-1476 or our Rental Services Assistant at (314) 655-3652 for more information.

44. Do I have to pay the amount in full for a membership at THE HEIGHTS?

You can either pay the full amount in cash, check or charge or you can use our monthly debit program.

45. What amenities does THE HEIGHTS have?

THE HEIGHTS offers full-service adult fitness center and youth fitness center, double court gymnasium, indoor walking track, indoor aquatic center and locker rooms, meeting and conference rooms, full-service library. Along with these physical amenities, THE HEIGHTS offers personal trainers, massages, adult and youth fitness programs, recreational programs and classes, drop-in tot-care, special events, volunteer opportunities, senior citizen programs, special events and activities.

46. Can Richmond Heights residents use parks and recreation facilities in Maplewood or Brentwood?

Yes, Richmond Heights residents receive resident rates at all Maplewood and Brentwood facilities and programs. All parks in Richmond Heights, Brentwood, Maplewood and Clayton are for public use. Certain facilities within the parks (pools, skating rinks, pavilions, sports fields, etc.) may be restricted to residents only or an additional fee may be charged for non-residents.

47. What shoes and clothing are acceptable to use the fitness center?

You must where closed toe shoes and appropriate fitness related clothing, such as shorts, sweat pants, a T-shirt and tennis shoes. No jeans, leotards, belts, cutoffs or sandals are permitted.

48. Is there a time-limit when using the cardiovascular equipment in the fitness center?

Yes, we ask that you limit use of cardio equipment to 30 minutes during peak times.

49. Can I wear a shirt over my swimsuit when using the pool?

Yes, as long as you have an appropriate suit under the T-shirt.

50. Are there any trail systems in Richmond Heights or partnering cities?

No, but currently under consideration.

51. Do you have personal training and massage therapy at THE HEIGHTS? If so, how do I obtain their services?

Yes, we offer both personal training and massage therapy. Please contact Nate Wilks at (314) 655-3658 for more information.

52. What is the Work Zone?

The Work Zone is a fitness center designed especially for kids between the ages of 8 and 15. It includes lots of equipment to help you get fit and feel great. You can lift weights on our 12 pieces of Strive KidzSmart strength equipment, ride one of our GameBikes and play a video game at the same time or get your groove on with our Dance Dance Revolution game or our Wii Fit game. The facility is supervised at all times by trained staff.

53. How old do you have to be to use the Work Zone?

The Work Zone is for kids between the ages of 8 and 15.

54. Is there a cost to use the Work Zone?

The Work Zone is free for those with an existing membership or those who pay the daily fee; however, there is a cost for the Work Zone orientation as described below.
Work Zone Orientation: R&M $5; NR $7
Work Zone Orientation Group Rate: R&M $2; NR $3
In order to receive the group rate, you must have a group of at least 10 kids. All
paperwork/payments must be submitted together and all must participate in the orientation at the same time. For more information,
contact Nate Wilks at (314) 655-3658.

55. How do I get started in the Work Zone?

A parent or legal guardian needs to come to THE HEIGHTS and fill out a Work Zone orientation form. Once the form and payment have been submitted, we’ll call to schedule an orientation. Once the orientation is completed you can work out when the Work Zone is open.

56. What can I wear in the Work Zone?

You’ll need to wear comfortable, workout clothes, such as a T-shirt, shorts or sweat pants and tennis shoes. Jeans, belts, open-toed shoes or anything with zippers are not permitted.

57. Is there personal training in the Work Zone or how can I get a personal trainer?

If you would like more information about working with a person trainer, contact Nate Wilks 314-655-3658.

58. What hours is the Work Zone open?

M/W/Th 5 pm - 8 pm
Sa 9 am - 1 pm
Su 2 pm - 5 pm