Frederick Law Olmsted, nineteenth century landscape architect of Central Park in New York City, was one of the first to recognize, and advocate for, the strong economic impact that parks have on surrounding neighborhoods. Since that time, countless studies have underscored the positive relationship between parks and their overall well-being for the neighboring community, including enhancing property values. Yet despite the analyses, it often takes the passion and dedication of a few concerned citizens, empowered by the desire to better their community, to bring the vision of a park into reality, even when the odds are stacked against them.
One such concerned citizen is Benson Chiles, an MCF trustee and passionate advocate of open space. Benson Chiles led the charge for saving the last undeveloped parcel of land on the Sandy Hook Bay - seven acres in Atlantic Highlands. Other concerned citizens, with Benson’s help, challenged the borough planning board’s approval of a residential development on the seven-acre lot. I invite you to read about the outcome - see below.
On the national level, we celebrate the successful passage of the Great American Outdoors Act that provides permanent and sustainable funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Please read more below about this important and historical win for conservation funding.
With such good news, there are so many reasons to feel positive about the future of parks and conservation in Monmouth County. But we cannot be satisfied with what has been achieved. More work is needed.
Onward!
William D. Kastning, AICP
Executive Director
P.S. Join us Saturday evening, September 26th for our Drive-In Movie Night Fundraiser at Bell Works in Holmdel. This not-to-be-missed event, a different approach from previous years, will allow us to stay safe, but still have fun and raise critical funds in support of our mission.
