My hope is that through the design meetings the community is able to come together and see that our needs and desires are not diametrically opposed; in fact I believe we share significant common ground.

What I heard at the Nov. 6 meeting is that everyone wants a park that is beautiful, natural and green. There was a strong desire to ensure the park allowed for quiet reflection. As well, most everyone felt that safety was extremely important, specifically with regard to busy California Ave Southwest, and dissuading undesirable use. I share again the projects goals - which have evolved based on four meetings we held this summer to gather feedback from our neighbors - so that you may see how aligned we truly are:

- Provide a safe respite for all given its proximity to a busy street.

- Entice young children to use their imagination and creativity to play and explore the area.

- Accommodate and feel welcoming to parents and neighbors, young and old.

- Serve as a place for thoughtful play and relaxation.

- Be made from natural elements and contain as few man-made components as possible.

- Provide continuity and connectivity to the empty parcel on Southwest Hill, a parcel targeted for future improvement.

I encourage you to join us at these design meetings (dates to be determined - check www.californiaplacepark.org). Come and share your ideas so that together, we can get to know one another, have fun and create a park that serves the entire community.

Ann Limbaugh

Project Co-Chair

www.californiaplacepark.org