To the editor:

Among the joys of Bainbridge Island are beautiful parks. Confusing mantra — if you can’t walk or bike to it, you are going too far.

This time will pass. Here’s a thought for the future however.

People of Bainbridge Island gladly agreed to find the purchase of the Sakai property. I — along with most people I know — was thrilled, anticipating a park of trails for walking and mountain biking. Open space, picnic areas, maybe some sort of ballfield or pickleball court.

When we saw the parks department idea of essentially paving over the entire flat space, many of us felt betrayed. This is certainly not what I voted for!

It is time for the parks department to rethink the reason for the purchase — the people of Bainbridge Island. Parks wants a shiny new headquarters; which certainly could be built at the current location at Strawberry Hill.

Sakai Park must remain green.

The Sakai property is located near the greatest density of population; an idea that has certainly come to roost now. It is relatively accessible with sidewalks close at hand; available to people who might be elderly, have disabilities or small children. People need time in green space. Compare walking here to walking or biking along inadequate shoulders to the Grand Forest!

I suggest that parks do an analysis of each park’s location and the number of households within easy walking distance, say one mile. I think the numbers will quickly support my point.

JOAN CHANDLER

Bainbridge Island