Many people in Lewiston have worked hard over the last few years to improve the bad reputation that Kennedy Park had in the past. City and community members’ investments in the park have really improved the quality of life for residents, not just from downtown, but from all over the city and neighboring towns.

The Visible Community has worked hard to get input from residents about issues facing the downtown, including the parks. Thanks to that input, there are better decisions being made for our city, such as a replacement to Maple Street’s pocket park for small children, now located on Knox Street.

Recent news about Kennedy Park made me worry. A lot of people use that park daily, of all backgrounds and ages, from little children to seniors. It is a great, citywide park with a skate park, basketball courts, benches and shade, and a growing farmers’ market where people can find locally-grown, healthy foods at reasonable prices.

The increased activity in Kennedy Park also has positive effects, including increased business for the local neighborhood and Lisbon Street businesses.

The people of Lewiston want safe places for children to play and for families to gather. I am glad to see that the city council is listening to residents’ voices, following through on the Kennedy Park master plan, and that it will create a new children’s playground in the park.

Dot Treadwell, Lewiston