Editor, Asbury Park Sun,
Ancient laws from the time of the Roman Empire held that the seas, the shores of the seas, the air and running water was common to everyone. This law became the internationally accepted Public Trust Doctrine. It is a law that requires all governments to hold in trust all public lands with universal public access for public use regardless of private property ownership.
All lands east of Ocean Avenue, all lands surrounding Wesley, Sunset and Deal lakes, as well as Bradley Park, Library Square, Springwood Park are considered public lands in Asbury Park.
A section of Sunset Park east of Main Street is being considered for a public skateboard park. This beautiful tree-covered, natural resource public access area has been used for temporary use by jazz, environmental groups, market festivals and events, and frequently for quiet family picnics and walks.
The building of a permanent cemented skateboard structure is a poor use of this peaceful shady public space right off busy Main Street. In partnership with our Board of Education, NJ Housing Authority and Interfaith Neighbors another more suitable environmentally appropriate location can be found. Perhaps our Westside Community Center can use this great idea for a needed boost of morale at their location.
Please do not spoil a great idea and cause community outcry and divisiveness by putting a public skateboard park in the wrong location.
Joyce Grant
Asbury Park resident
[This letter represents the opinion of its writer and is not representative of any opinion of the Asbury Park Sun staff. All readers are welcome to submit Letters to the Editor to news@asburyparksun.com for our consideration. For guidelines on letter-writing and submission, click here.]
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