[ricki]

Sample letter

I am saddened and disturbed by the proposed “deferred maintenance’ plan for the East Beach area of Crissy Field. The plan takes literally the lyrics “PAVED PARADISE AND PUT UP A PARKING LOT”

In fact this area of Crissy field was never intended for the sole purpose of parking. It was intended to be part of Crissy FIELD, a PARK, a RECREATION AREA, and a SOCIAL GATHERING SITE. The proposed plan suggests that the architects have limited knowledge of the area and how it is used.

This area is a WORLD class windsurfing and kiting site and is used for international events. The proposed site, obliterates much of the green area which is essential for rigging and equipment. The available green site proposed is completely inadequate and will also be in high demand by picnickers. The needs of windsurfers and kitesurfers have been completely ignored. One must park ADJACENT to a grassy area in order to have access to one’s vehicle for the equipment. The proposed plan is incompatible with the original mission statement and intended use design for the area and suggests that the area is solely there as parking for the promenade. This could not be further from the truth.

It is unfortunate that the original dune grass proposed for the area did not work out. There are other types of flora that could be considered such as dicondra repens which is drought and coastal tolerate, can handle heavy traffic and also will grow in sand or hard surface. The lack of maintenance of the area over the years has been appalling but not as appalling as the current proposal. Maintenance of the existing lawns is also an option. Drought has been cited as a reason not to do this however drought has not stopped the proposal of extensive lawn in the presidio overpass plan. Thus maintenance of the existing lawns should remain an option.

This proposal is UNACCEPTABLE and unless you work for greater compromise with the communities and especially the windsurfers and kitesurfers that utilize the area then you can be guaranteed significant pressure both from a community outpouring and legal angle to prevent this project from moving forward.