‘Kite Hill’ is a valuable resource | Letter to the Editor

The Friends of Luther Burbank are opposed to the possibility of putting a parking lot on 'Kite Hill.'

The Friends of Luther Burbank Park agree that there is a parking problem on Mercer Island, and has been for some time. But we disagree that using Kite Hill for future parking needs should be reopened for study. This hill is a valuable piece of real estate, with fabulous views and the possibility of events such as weddings being held here. And the Master Plan for Luther Burbank Park does indeed show it as part of the Park, and does not endorse using it for parking!

We find it interesting that the words “Kite Hill” appeared in the Reporter only three times, as opposed to many more terms that appeared more often. However, the possibility of using Kite Hill for parking only became public a few weeks ago.

There was a huge public outcry. More than 650 Mercer Islanders signed an online petition, and more than 250 added comments, unanimously opposed to using Kite Hill for parking.

After the Council’s decision to take it off the table for study, it became less controversial. But if the City Council were to continue to consider paving Luther Burbank’s Kite Hill, we ask the Reporter to give as much coverage to that issue as they did to the Island Crest Way “road diet” and then see how our community responds. In any case, let’s get creative, and not pave park land.

 

Amanda Clark

President, Friends of Luther Burbank Park

Bharat Shyam,

Judy Roan