In this discussion, it is the latter that 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.
“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)
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 vital natural heart of our community.
The related argument’s answer, whether Rancho Cordova has rights to seats on the Update Planning Committee is obvious, of course they do, ( Sacramento city has four and the County has five) and Rancho Cordova should have had at least three seats instead of the one they were given.
They should also have sign-off power on the final plan, as does Sacramento city and county.
The continued attempts to keep their voice from being heard, with 25% of the Parkway within their city limits, is very unfair, and a continuance of the ineffective management of our most precious natural resource.The current Parkway management should be happy to receive additional (and effective) help, as Rancho Cordova has proven very effective growing and managing their city, and can bring that same professional perspective to a Parkway in need of it.
Here is an excerpt.
What way's right way for parkway?
Rancho Cordova demands voice in decision
By Ed Fletcher -- Bee Staff Writer Published 2:15 am PDT Saturday, May 13, 2006
For Lea Brooks, it's the road home. It's Dave Ford's fly-fishing playground. And Lou Heinrich carries with him childhood memories of nature walks with pioneering local preservationist Effie Yeaw.
Like other area lovers of the outdoors, all of these local residents have things they cherish and things they could live without on the American River Parkway, which extends 23 miles from Discovery Park near Interstate 5 to the fish hatchery at Nimbus Dam.
Unlike others, they're in the position to do something about it.
Brooks, Ford and Heinrich are among two dozen area residents representing different interests who have been debating the parkway's future.
For the first time since 1985, the committee is charged with updating the plan governing the use of the parkway, often referred to as the "jewel of Sacramento." Meeting twice a month, the group of disparate voices reached a consensus on a number of thorny issues, from where dirt bikes are permitted to rejecting dog off-leash areas.
But as the committee prepared to wrap up its work this summer, the city of Rancho Cordova unveiled a list of proposed new uses it wants.
Rancho Cordova's ideas
With 25 percent of the parkway touching Rancho Cordova's boundaries, city officials maintain that it makes sense for the city to have some say on how the parkway is used.
