Friant area needs public park

Now is the perfect time for the incorporation of a public park to the development of Millerton Specific Plan. On Dec. 13, Bonadelle Neighborhoods is requesting that the county Board of Supervisors allow the rezoning of 77 acres from single family residential usage to open conservation land use, allowing the properties to be farmed with recycled water from a nearby water-treatment facility. Use of the recycled water was authorized by Conditional Use Permit Number 3503.

There is no free public park in the area north of the Copper River development. It is my suggestion that 25 of those acres be set aside for a public park so residents can have a place to gather and a place for their children to play. With the availability of recycled water, this is a perfect location for a public park.

This will not only add to the quality of life for residents in the Friant area, but will increase the value of homes for the developers. As former director of parks and recreation for the city of Fresno, I recognize the value of neighborhood parks.

This story was originally published December 16, 2016 at 11:58 AM with the headline "Friant area needs public park."