Recent public discussion about the Parkway concerns stakeholder goals, with some calling for the Parkway to be a “nature preserve” and others calling for “enhancement” of the Parkway.
In this discussion, it is the latter who are more congruent with the original documented intent, as we can see from the stated goals of the 1985 Parkway Plan, still guiding its daily management until its updating is completed sometime in the next couple of years.
“GOALS
To provide, protect and enhance for public use a continuous open space greenbelt along the American River extending from the Sacramento River to Folsom Dam; and
To provide appropriate access and facilities so that present and future generations can enjoy the amenities and resources of the Parkway which enhance enjoyment of leisure activities; and
To preserve, protect, interpret and improve the natural, archeological, historical and recreational resources of the Parkway, including an adequate flow of high quality water, anadromous and resident fishes, migratory and resident wildlife, and diverse natural vegetation; and
To mitigate adverse effects of activities and facilities adjacent to the Parkway; and
To provide public safety and protection within and adjacent to the Parkway.”
American River Parkway Plan, December 1985. (p. 2-1) (highlighting added)
As we can see, the Parkway was designed for the enjoyment of human beings recreating in a natural sanctuary which needs continual enhancement and improvement to realize its dream of providing for all of us, for seven generations and more, the preservation, protection, and strengthening of the natural heart of our community.
