Thank you to the more than 115 participants who joined the Cherry Park Virtual Town Hall on November 17. I am grateful for the insight you brought to the discussion. Your participation and honest feedback reflect your deep care for Lakeside.
Cherry Park Planning
The July storm that caused a tree to fall on the boat created an unexpected opportunity to improve Cherry Park. As we complete projects throughout Lakeside, our goal is to make all spaces more accessible.
We acknowledge your concerns about the lack of time for community feedback. Because of your input, we have slowed down the process to allow adequate time for comments and questions.
Special thanks to Dale Knobel, Chair of the Historic Preservation & Design Review Board, for clarifying HP&DRB’s role in the process at the town hall. We heard many ideas for alternative locations for the new play equipment and appreciate your creativity. At this time, Cherry Park remains the intended installation location.
- The Boat: Many of you shared how meaningful the boat is to your families. Prior to the Virtual Town Hall, Lakeside committed to the individual who helped make the boat possible that we would try to keep it. Lakeside is working on the next steps to preserve the boat and keep it in Cherry Park.
- Green Space: We recognize the importance of open space. Cherry Park is cherished not only for its playground but also for its green areas where children and families gather. Green space will be preserved in this park so kids can continue to play soccer, frisbee and kickball.
- Restrooms: We heard the desire to add a public restroom at Cherry Park. If donors express interest in funding a restroom, Lakeside will conduct a feasibility study for the construction and collect community feedback on this possibility.
- Accessibility & Inclusion: The grant and donation we received to fund the new play equipment allow Lakeside to expand who can experience and enjoy Lakeside’s parks. Adding accessible features is not about replacing the boat but about welcoming more children into the joy of play.
- Trees: Many of you emphasized the importance of preserving trees and ensuring shade for children as they play. In the Virtual Town Hall, we shared details about the tree assessment, including the removal and replacement of some trees. Lakeside will follow its rules on tree replacement.
- Storybook Trail: We heard the importance of the Storybook Trail and seating along the path. As shared during the meeting, the Storybook Trail will remain, and benches will be reinstalled along the path, with additional seating added.
Continued Community Feedback
We are continuing to gather community input. Please share your thoughts by completing the digital comment card or emailing me directly at [email protected].
Gratitude to Lakeside Chautauqua
As I reflect, I want to thank each of you for your care and love for Lakeside. I also want to express gratitude to the donor family for their generosity to this sacred place.
Cherry Park’s future honors our tradition of caring for children and youth and supports every child who plays, imagines and grows up at Lakeside. Together, we will ensure that Cherry Park remains a beloved place for all. We are grateful to all who support Lakeside’s mission as we work “to enrich the quality of life for all people.”
Charles Allen
The Lakeside Association President and CEO
