Reader: Northaven Trail a ‘Violation’

I think we all love reader feedback, even when it’s not exactly praise. And Debbie Newman, whose home backs up to Northaven Trail, had some choice words after reading my print story last week about the incoming trailhead (PDF warning: said project is now a consent item on the City Council’s Aug. 22 agenda).

Anyway, because the story had a relatively rah-rah, everyone-seems-happy tone, I’d say it’s pretty important that we hear Debbie’s take too. Pasted, with permission, from an email:

I would like you to know that everyone does not see this project as a wonderful new addition to our lives.

We purchased this house about five years ago. I was not happy about the power lines at the rear of our property, but I felt it was a tradeoff for the advantage of being next to vacant land, which would be peaceful and private. No neighbors backing up to our property!

I think I may have received a postcard about a meeting taking place about the trail, but had no idea of the scope of what was being planned.  I am also not aware of any disclosures from Realtors when we bought the property of what was in the planning stages.

Imagine my surprise a few months ago, when I heard machines and lots of high-pitched beeping noises outside of my backyard. I went outside to look at what was going on, and a path had been laid out about 10 feet from my property line.

To make a long story short, I called our councilwoman to complain and was referred to our local Park and Recreation neighborhood volunteer representative, Lee Kleinman, who was very nice, and came to my home and listened, but that’s about all.

I realize this is a done deal, but I can’t help but feel that this is a violation of my privacy, not to mention I will need to put up a new chain-link fence to provide more security for the throngs of people who will be flocking to my backyard and can now drive and park at the JCC to get here!

I am reminded of this violation to my quiet neighborhood every day when I see all the brand new, painted lines on the cross-streets so we don’t hit any pedestrians. I wonder why money is being spent on all of this when teachers have been cut back and food shelves are bare.

Thoughts?