Raleigh parks bond: In divisive times this is something we can all agree on
There was nothing good about the COVID pandemic. However, the need to do something, to get outside, or to just have a break from it all, sent some of us to our greenways, parks, and bike trails — those well-tended places that we’d perhaps taken for granted in a world before social distancing and mask wearing.
The pandemic reminded us how valuable parks, greenways, and recreation programs are for our quality of life.
Now, with a vote for the Raleigh parks bond in November, we have a chance to build on what is there by creating new spaces and trails and entire new parks where we need them.
As I look ahead to ending my service on the Raleigh City Council to devote the time to my wife and our new baby that they deserve, I say to my fellow citizens: Yes, our city government and our community are divided. And, yes, I had my own disagreements with Mayor Mary-Ann Baldwin and other council members. Nonetheless, we can’t let legitimate tussles over zoning issues divert our attention and distract those we represent from this singularly important parks bond referendum.
The Raleigh parks bond offers an opportunity to unite Raleigh behind a simple idea: Our city deserves great parks.
Whether you live in a new part of the city in need of a park in your neighborhood or you live in the more established neighborhoods that need investment in aging parks, there is something in this bond for you.
Sometimes, government really can do something for everyone. This is one of those times.
We will build new walking trails and pickleball courts for us to enjoy with friends and family, and dog parks for our furry friends. We will renovate playgrounds and ball fields for children to play on and community centers to host programs and classes that enrich our lives. We will protect the environment by preserving open space, protecting wildlife habitat, and managing water runoff.
This bond goes further than past parks bonds, meeting the moment today and reaching for our future. This bond promotes equity with investments in John Chavis Park, Tarboro Road Community Center, Method Community Park, and Biltmore Hills Park. All in historically Black neighborhoods.
The bond also provides funds to match the private donations for the beginning stages of Dix Park with the plaza entry way and an incredible playground. Families will come from all over the city and the region to meet for play-dates at this one-of-a-kind playground. Hello, out-of-town grandkids!
Aside from these projects, the bond will invest in parks, greenways, and community centers in every part of the city, too many to detail here. However, you can visit the city website to see the list of projects and note an undesignated category of investments that will be spread fairly throughout the city.
We all need and deserve the things that come along with great parks: good physical and mental health, a cleaner environment and more opportunities to commune with nature, programs for children to learn, and wonderful playgrounds for them to play on.
Even in these divided times, that seems like something we can all agree on.