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I have an issue of concern that I hope is thought of if the Roberts property is ever turned into a sport's field complex. Let me start by asking if anyone has ever been up on Hill St by the James P. Casey intersection or near the underground water tank on a clear October evening while an event is going on at Muzzy Field ? Looking down into Bristol or at the tree-horizon in the direction of Muzzy Field , a very unnatural glow of incandescent lighting at the playing field\can be seen quite readily from atop the Hill St area. Now imagine a similar, yet larger-more intense glow of light if a sports complex develops on the Robert's property. I would contend that a great deal of the "country" or "rural" atmosphere of that area will be greatly diminished with playing field and parking lot lighting , illuminating the night-time sky during the summer and fall seasons. Something to think about; maybe it can be avoided and still have playing fields?? But I would submit , that currently , and especially in the Fall , the drive up James P Casey with views behind Chippens Hill School, and from atop Hill St ; can at times be spectacular and awe-inspiring. Night time lighting of sports fields could very well destroy much of the country/rural atmosphere that currently exists and is appreciated by many.
It seems to me there really isn't enough room for a golf course on that property although I could be wrong. The city probably would only consider ways to generate money from the area anyways in the end. I do not favor a golf coarse but I would except the fact if one came to the property. I do realize that many baseball teams don't have sufficient places to practice. That has been a problem for many, many years. It also seems like an inexpensive way to go at the very least for now where as it could be built up as a better sports complex in future yrs. a little at a time. I think there should be good planning for a complex but add a little at a time is a pretty cool way to go if need be. Of course there should be trails still leading into the hoppers area and a parking area included. It will also be nice to see a map and better trail signs from some of those Eagle Scout projects coming up. I know there is at least one in the works right now. Thanks for the easy way for me to respond by e-mail.
I think that Roberts Property should be turned into a golf driving range. It would make profits for the city, and also give people a local place to practice their swing since Bristol doesn't have any public driving ranges. It wouldn't create pollution and would be a great asset to the city. It is the ideal location for a driving range, seeing that many people that live on Chippens hill enjoy the game. Chipenee golf course does have a driving range but it is not open to the public. You should take into consideration the people who aren't members of this golf course. I am tired of seeing the same boring landscape of dirt and weeds when we drive by, and a driving range would still keep the beauty of nature while creating profits. Please turn Roberts Property into a driving range.
This property could and should be used for a multi - purpose park for residents of the city. It might be interesting for you to view "Veterans Park" in the Oakville section of Watertown. It is set in a similar "Rural” environment and has playing fields, picnic sites, horseshoe pits etc.. Its use is open but a permit may be obtained for special events. It is widely used and very well maintained. It caters to a wide variety of interests. I believe this to be a perfect use for the property. I have lived in this area of the city for over 20 years, in fact lived at the corner of Pinehurst rd. and Perkins St. when Roberts still owned the farm, and have watched that property transform. Many people now use it and many more could enjoy it if the city would create something as I have described. I seriously suggest a short drive to Watertown and view this park. It is a short distance from Blackrock State Park and is relatively close by. It would give you a very good sense of what this space could be. I hope that whatever happens, this area is preserved and used to its fullest potential for the all to enjoy and not just a few special interests. A space where people could roller skate, kids could just play ball for fun, walk your dog, have a picnic, fly a kite or just enjoy the out of doors. Good luck and thank you for taking an interest in this matter, and allowing for a forum for the people like myself to offer our suggestions and thoughts.
How come I don't hear anyone talk about leaving this place in its present form till the time comes when we will need the space for another school. Let the people walk their dogs and themselves till the time comes for another school to be built. Why bother developing this parcel into anything right now. I've lived in this town my whole life, and there are no major parcels of land left to build another school (elementary, middle, or high school). So I hope you council members look down the road a little bit further and plan for the future.
I have been to the property a few times and have been disgusted at the condition of the trail. The amount of droppings left by dogs being walked by owners is ridiculous. I do not know the answer to this problem, because that is why most of the owners take their dogs there-for exercise and relief. I have 2 dogs myself and have built areas for them at home. It seems to be less functional in its current state as a large litter box for 100 or so residents and their dogs.
I would think a sports complex-without night lighting might be more beneficial for all residents. A baseball/softball field, soccer field and basketball courts might be more useful to all residents. Then maybe put in a dog trail around the perimeter for citizens and their dogs. I think you have to allow pets in the park. I would limit the scope of the building to be set on the property and have security lighting as the vandalism at night on Chippens Hill is totally out of control, especially on weekend nights.
Maybe that Soap Box Derby could get off the public street that we use every day.
In closing, to leave this area for dog walks is not the best use. Totally acceptable while in the planning and discussion phases but in the long run, the dog run doesn't attract new families to Bristol.
Although I am not a golfer, I would have to say that putting in a public golf course would benefit Bristol financially. Millions of people play golf annually in the United States. The USGA even has a grant foundation to develop new facilities, perhaps the city could apply for that to alleviate the cost of building the golf course. Most of my family members are golfers; they have to leave Bristol to play. It is time for this money making venue to come to Bristol.