Urban parks are more than just green spaces, they are essential components of the city experience. The park spaces in the Gardens are a shining example of this. Despite the challenges brought on by the pandemic, our parks were bustling with activity. From tai chi to picnics, families and friends gathered to enjoy the outdoors and each other's company. The value of our beautiful parks was never fully appreciated as much as during those dark days, but it came at a substantial cost. It's no secret that our parks have been through a lot of wear and tear over the years. But the good news is that these cherished spaces that bring so much joy and beauty to our community are finally receiving the attention they deserve. 

Unlike the Central Park Conservatory (which regularly closes their Great Lawn and Sheep Meadow for long periods) and others that benefit from substantial funding, staffing, and resources, many would argue that our parks have not received the level of care or investment they truly deserved over the years. While it isn't popular to restrict usage, considerable efforts are underway to rectify past neglect and hopefully ensure the long-term health of our beautiful parks.

All three of our parks - Flagpole Green, Hawthorne Park and Olivia Park - have been receiving multi-step treatments in the hopes that their original beauty will be revived. Outside consultants have been providing the related guidance and services, but there are no guarantees of permanence. Steps will need to be taken to assure their long term viability.

In the past, other attempts were made to eliminate the "dust bowls", but only limited success was achieved. As recently as April 25th, a turf herbicide was applied to the parks. All are hopeful that success is close behind since everyone’s interest is vested in getting it right. 

While residents are anxious to regain use of our parks, this long-awaited restoration process is a once-in-a-decade attempt to correct past wrongs, given both the financial resources and sacrifices required. We need to give the treatments a shot at working. While great progress has been made, regular heavy usage could easily set the process back. With proper maintenance, careful monitoring, and upkeep, our parks - our urban oases - should continue to be a source of pride and enjoyment for generations to come, but it requires time, effort, and patience. Watching grass grow has never been associated with speed.