To the Editor:
Ah, the sun and warmth did burst into Alexandria today, and gave fresh illumination to the disastrous clearing of trees on the riverfront below Windmill Hill Park. Many have been following the “redevelopment” keenly: with interest, astonishment, plus complaints, and signings of petitions. And many have always been following these plans and meetings with educated and patient reactions to possible and necessary “improvements.”
What has occurred so far (basically a horrible scorched earth of trees and river bordering plants) has been a horror to the eye and imagination. Yes, we know there is a grand plan, which will include saplings judiciously arrayed, but right now it is a sad wasteland.
I am writing specifically today as the reappearance of the sun with its attendant heat is highlighted now! Not a spot of shade, not the relief for a dog walker (or dog) in the park; no shade for those who walk along Union Street; not a single welcoming, healthful gesture of what trees and nature so gladly can provide — and providing that, could speak well for this famously choice and livable city. The protesters (and even those approving of the plan) are mumbling, grumbling and appalled. No matter what the grand inevitable plan is calling for in future, all these trees did not need to be leveled now.
I can’t think of a person, from tourist to dog walker to realtor and arborist, who does not appreciate the necessary shade and benefits of trees. Perhaps the walkways and parks will one day (too late for many) be habitable, but now they are incapable of sustaining the vibrant activity and enjoyment of the citizens and visitors. A population of river/bird/walking/exercising appreciators has been stripped of a vital portion of their habitual Alexandria life.
A graphic illustration is in the now lone, hot benches where people would visit and create new small neighborhoods of support and comradeship. The benches have no shade, the dog owners are surely seeking new livable places to establish new supportive societies. Hmm … was this another backhanded effort at restricting dog owners in Alexandria? Sadly, this could have been foreseen.
Deborah Bigelow
Alexandria