Dear Editor,

The Olmsted Brothers, who designed Seattle’s park system, would be rolling in their graves if they knew what the Seattle Parks and Recreation was considering for Lincoln Park.

A zipline course in Lincoln Park would turn a pristine, natural park into a circus, marring one of the few remaining spots in Seattle where urbanites can enjoy relative peace and quiet.

Lincoln Park is a haven for those desiring peace and quiet within the city. The park is patronized by many, including families visiting its playgrounds and picnic spots, and bicyclists, runners and walkers enjoying its trails and walkways. There is plenty of healthy vitality in Lincoln Park as it stands now.

The fact that the city is considering parceling 6-9 acres of Lincoln Park to a commercial venture that could impact the wildlife of the area is anathema to me. Not only would the crowds attending this pricey venture deter from the amenities of the park, but the whirring of the zipline would be disturbing to those wanting a quiet respite. Parking would be even more scarce than it is now, especially in the summer.

In addition, it appears that Go Ape has had some issues in the past, particularly at Lever Park, in Rivington (UK) where it apparently felled 18 too many trees (see link) in the process of establishing its course. http://saveitchenvalleypark.webs.com/newsupdates.htm

I understand that Seattle Parks and Recreation needs to find an income source to pay for park maintenance. But certainly, turning Lincoln Park into an amusement park shouldn’t be a serious option.

Katie Bucy
West Seattle