Thanks for vote for Hobson West Ponds

After more than four years of public process, with countless twists and turns that could never have been anticipated, four Naperville Park District Commissioners voted Sept. 11 to purchase the land between the Hobson West Ponds. The new Hobson West Ponds Park, envisioned as early as 2004 when the key issue appeared one of rezoning, will be a 15-acre gem of a gateway to downtown Naperville along West Street, not only for residents of Hobson West and adjacent subdivisions, but also for thousands of Napervillians who live on the south side of town and regularly use West Street. The many animals, including deer, red foxes and coyotes, which travel between Springbrook Prairie and the Caroline Martin Mitchell lands, are assured of safer access. The park district's action spares more than 120 mature trees and should allow a vital wetland habitat to thrive at the ponds.

On behalf of the WSGPC's Board and membership, I would like to publicly thank Crestview Builders, the Naperville Park District and their respective legal advisers for their willingness to act in the best interest of our community. Crestview admirably agreed to sell the land for less than their original purchase price, making the park district's purchase fiscally responsible public policy. Future generations may not remember those whose hard work and selfless actions made the park a reality, but 30 years from now, on a bright, sunshine-filled summer's afternoon at Hobson West Ponds Park, the legacy of these individuals will live on.

George Bennett

President, West Street Greenspace Preservation Coalition

Naperville