Garden plot views should be fact-based

On behalf of the Naperville Park District, I need to correct some inaccuracies made by Albert Cain in the garden plots article that ran on Nov. 15. Due to space, I have kept my responses brief; however, the complete letter can be viewed at www.napervilleparks.org.

While some see Option 1 as "destroying" plots, this concept illustrates the relocation of approximately 370 of the 590 plots to the southern portion of the West Street location, and to either DuPage River Park or Southwest Community Park, with 100 more plots available.

DuPage River Park's soil quality and its location in relation to the floodplain were questioned, but recent soil sampling has shown it is in good condition to support gardening. Additionally, the proposed area is not in the floodplain.

Regarding pollution at DuPage River Park, the area in question is located well south of the proposed gardening site and at a lower elevation; therefore, gardening would not be impacted. There is no history of any other pollution at or near this site.

The extent to which any new athletic fields would be used has been questioned. There has been much discussion on use not only by the school district and the park district, but by other community organizations that serve thousands of Naperville participants annually. The proposed walking/hiking trail could be enjoyed by everyone.

Finally, regardless of which option is selected, the park district has no intention of abandoning the garden plots. In fact, we favor expanding the program to south Naperville, giving others the opportunity to participate.

I appreciate the involvement the community has had with this discussion. I only ask that in the future that those who wish to voice their opinions make sure their statements are based on facts.

Ray McGury

Executive Director

Naperville Park District