Hi Justin and City Council,
We live in and own the house at 442 Gilbert Ave which borders Willow Oaks Park and is right next to the dog park. We deeply appreciate the citys efforts in renovating Willows Oak Park. We have two children, Natasha (3 yr) / Nina (1 yr) who use the childrens park extensively. Natasha/Nina, safety and noise are our key priorities for this email
1) Childrens play areas - The park renovation does not have any plans for expanding childrens play areas to include small and large kids like Eleanor Pardee Park does. Instead the focus is on expanding the dog park to include a small dog park instead. I would urge the council to look at converting the unused basketball area into a small kids park.
2) Pickleball noise - Several of my neighbors near the park have voiced concern about noise from pickleball. Wall Street Journal has clearly stated a study showing increased noise of 15 decibels from pickleball vs tennis which has caused lawsuits. Willow Oaks is a very small park vs Nealon and Burgess where pickleball belongs. However, no alternatives without pickleball have been shared in this agenda. Alternative 3 is the next best option.
3) Safety - I have shared comments about opposition to the restroom with Matt Pruter. A restroom used to exist at Willow Oaks park but was removed in the past in light of illicit activities. These will return esp given the context of crime in the Willows and nearby neighborhoods. I urge the council to not include this in the plans. I also recommended the inclusion of a lighted crosswalk at the Gilbert Ave entrance to the park where strollers and dog owners navigate traffic to cross the street.
4) Sports field perimeter fencing - I love the idea of the fencing to keep out dogs. We have stopped using the sports field due to dog excrement and aggression.
Best,
Amit
