Did we need additional proof that Oak Park is becoming less and less of a sane community!?
Ridgeland Common, a well-designed park, with opportunities for many different uses, will soon become just another athletic field with synthetic turf, destroying what is likely the most beloved part of the Commons — the sledding hill — unless the park board listens to the many voices in favor of keeping it. Ridgeland Common has offered something for everyone in the village: a swimming pool, indoor ice rink, athletic fields, a sledding hill with workout stairs, mature trees, a great spot for viewing sunsets, the fireworks, picnics, hanging out, and a well-used dog park that is appropriately placed.
But the park district’s elected officials have sprung their intentions to demolish the hill, its trees and the stairs without any credible attempt to determine the wishes of the public. The public meetings held did not even discuss demolishing the hill as a possibility. The only thing discussed was the use of synthetic turf vs. natural grass for the field.
Were the kids with the new sleds for Christmas, the ones with make-shift cardboard sleds, the ones using only their slippery snowsuits to propel themselves down, asked if they wanted their sledding hill destroyed for artificial turf? Most people I’ve asked, and most of the people signing the online petition to keep the hill, were not aware of the demolition plans until recently. Taking away this winter pleasure that gets kids and families outdoors for winter fun and exercise is mind-boggling.
How do Park District’s officials justify spending $23 million dollars to “renovate” Ridgeland Common while destroying many valuable resources?
Wasn’t this supposed to be a renovation? The definition of a renovation implies restoration, repair of something that needs maintenance — not demolition and rebuilding of something very different.
From statements made at the last board meeting, it appears the district’s application to AAYSO for a $250,000 grant for synthetic turf was turned down. But the district has decided to proceed with the synthetic turf anyway, using our local tax dollars. The only ones to benefit from this are participants in the organized sports who will use the field. And it will come at the expense of all Oak Parkers who use the hill for various purposes.
Ridgeland Common, with its hill in the middle of town, has a small town feel to it, and with its multiple uses, has lived up to its name as a Commons. Remove the hill, and our elected park district officials should understand that they also remove one of the greatest wintertime pleasures for all children.
Kathryn Jonas
Oak Park