New chance for park

For decades people have complained that Riverside is the stepchild of New London's public parks.

And indeed, the park has been neglected. Not just by caretakers, but by the public as well. The 18-acre parcel in the north end of the city was once a crown jewel, but as its visitors dropped off, resources were directed to other, more popular city attractions.

But now the city has an opportunity to bring back Riverside Park, or at least a piece of it. For months a debate has raged over whether to sell a portion of the park to the abutting Coast Guard Academy. Now there is a proposal to sell 10.25 acres of Riverside to the Coast Guard for about $2.6 million and use the proceeds to upgrade and maintain the remaining park, including its Thames River waterfront.

The plan also calls for creation of a new park in the nearby open space at State Pier Road, Crystal Avenue and Mill Street, incorporating another forgotten city gem, the circa-1650 Old Town Mill. Voters will ultimately decide at referendum whether to sell a portion of Riverside if it gets that far. But for now, the City Council has voted 4-3 to move the discussion forward by sending the Coast Guard's request to the Planning and Zoning Commission for review, and issuing a request for proposals from others interested in the park.

This newspaper supports the idea of reducing Riverside to a manageable size and using assets from the sale of a portion of it to improve and maintain a smaller park. Riverside was never intentionally neglected, but it lost its appeal after it became isolated by development and because of its rough and sloping terrain.

Now there is a chance to save a piece of it, and the added bonus of an additional city park to satisfy the recreational needs of all residents, but particularly those in the north end of New London.

Sale opponents have rightfully asked for details. They have them now. But a majority of residents, not a handful, should decide the park's future. The City Council should send the plan to voters. It's their park, let them decide Riverside's future.