To Assemblymember Sam Hoyt and BRO:
As a proud and enthusiastic downtown resident I have watched as you have worked with Buffalo Rising and community leaders in the creation of pocket parks throughout the city.
While on a recent walk around my neighborhood I noticed several residents playing catch with a baseball on a section of what I believe to be state land where Genesee, Oak, Elm, and Route 33 all form what I would consider a great place for a pocket park.
This grassy area is relatively large and even has an existing gravel area that could be used for parking. The park could be as simple as adding some picnic tables and grills to as unique as a “Public Safety Memorial” park to honor deceased Buffalo police and firefighters killed in the line of duty.
A nice stone memorial and/or fountain could be added in the future. The possibilities are limitless and could be added immediately or over time. I can invision beach volleyball courts, horse shoe pits, picnic shelters, putting green, or any number of other idea’s. The park would be a great assest to those of us residents looking for more green space within the cement jungle we live in. What a great way for our growing downtown community to meet, play, and relax.
Donald P. Cialone Jr.
Editor’s Note: Assemblymember Hoyt is in Albany today. We’ll post his views in the comments section as soon as he responds.