To the editor:

In response to the article about building a new park, I want to thank Jacob Brier for pushing the idea of a town park with town officials. I read Jacob’s idea about having the area near Wood’s Pond be developed into a park. The first thought I had was…having to listen to the noise of the traffic, lack of peace and solitude that you get from being in such a park.

I envision a place that has water fountains, a duck pond, beautifully landscaped gardens (We have many gifted gardeners in our town who I am sure would love to showcase their talents). There should be beautiful benches scattered every so many feet along nicely constructed walkways that everyone can enjoy, especially seniors who need to have flat surfaces in which to walk on with a cane or walker.

A place where you can bring your dog on a leash and enjoy a quiet leisurely stroll. Dog owners cannot bring their dog to the beach and need to walk their dogs oftentimes on busy roads in this town. The bike path provides somewhat of an option that is good for people who are physically fit and can walk longer distances with their dogs, but for older people who may need to sit after walking for 5 minutes…the bike path is not a good option, nor is it safe for older walkers who would need to be constantly aware of bikers, who may not be patient or slow down for a senior who does not move quickly or quite possibly does not hear them coming.

I believe the Carmelite Monastery is big enough to build a park the town can be proud of and have for years to come. I understand it is in a quiet neighborhood. I believe the park would not cause any unusual noise. I think it could be possible to have the park open from sunrise to sunset and that a gate would close the park after dark. For special events such as musical concerts and art festivals we have other venues in our town for that if that was a concern to the neighborhood. But I believe the land is big enough not to be a problem.

Joann Weiner

Barrington