[RP TownTalk] Let's keep Route 1 Cafritz property Forested. Protecting the Green Spaces within the Beltway.

[Jonathan W. Ebbeler]

There are three different conversations being had on this topic that are
being combined erroneously into a single argument:

 

1) Public land held by organizations whose primary mission is to provide
parkland and preserve public open space (examples include the National Park
Service for Greenbelt Park and M-NCPPC's Department of Parks and
Recreation's Riverdale Recreation Center)

2) Public land held by organizations whose primary mission is NOT to provide
parkland and preserve public open space (examples include RP's Field of
Dreams and the University of Maryland's parcels at M-Square)

3) Private land held by organizations or individuals whose primary mission
is development (examples include Riverdale Plaza, Cafritz, privately held
parcels at M-square).

 

While no one can predict the future it is helpful when having this
discussion to understand who owns the land, what their mission is etc.   I
think an entirely likely prospect of future land use in the area will
indicate that for #3 the parcels will assuredly be developed, for #1 the
parcels will assuredly not be developed, and #2 parcels will be a mix of
preservation of parkland and development.  The master plan along River Road
indicates that all of UMD's land holdings there will be developed into a
research park.  It is incredibly likely, IMHO, that RP will maintain control
of its parks for the enjoyment of all although on that point future
generations will decide that and none of us are in a position to state
conclusively.  On that subject however, I think the FOD (along with numerous
other RP-owned parklands) needs some significant investments and
improvements - it is a bit embarrassing to drive past a park called the
'Field of Dreams' and be greeted by a dilapidated sign, a port-a-potty, and
underutilized field.  It is hardly an inviting space or activated public
space and we as a town can do better.  

 

Best,

 

Jonathan 

 

Jonathan W. Ebbeler | Councilman Ward 1

 

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