The Chinese Garden and the Draft Washburn Fair Oaks Park Master Plan

The following letter was presented during Open Time at last Wednesday’s Park Board meeting:

April 3, 2013

Commissioners,

I am speaking here today about the Draft Washburn Fair Oaks Park Master Plan. I want to urge you to reconsider the placement of the Chinese Garden in this park.

Neighborhood parks are intended to serve those who live within 6 blocks of the park. The proposed placement of the Chinese Garden within Washburn Fair Oaks Park has been controversial. Why put it where it is not wanted or appreciated?

It is a gift that should be situated where it is valued by those living closest to it. Consider Thomas Lowry Park and how its neighborhood values and nurtures it. Consider Loring Park and how its neighborhood values and nurtures it.

The Chinese Garden needs to be located where it too will be valued and nurtured. Please reconsider this project and find a site other than Washburn Fair Oaks Park for the Chinese Garden.

Thank you.

Arlene Fried