We read the letter you printed from Mr. Sivesind (Renton Reporter, Feb. 12, 2010) and thought a different point of view might be helpful. We enjoy walking at Coulon Park and enjoy getting our exercise in other parks as well. Others we enjoy include the Seward Park loop and the loop at Green Lake, both, of course, are part of the Seattle Parks system. Both of these provide the pleasure of walking adjacent to the lake, with pleasant views and great atmosphere.

I’m not sure if everyone focusing on the Coulon Park proposal realizes that the Seattle Parks policy permits pets-on-leash on all pathways, as long as pets are kept away from swimming beaches. It has been our experience that the various kinds of users, whether those with dogs on leash, or just walkers like ourselves, or even people on skates or bicycles, kids on tricycles, all uniformly share the paths with courtesy and good spirits. It is really quite marvelous. And all do it with care for their environment. Litter and dog waste are essentially non-problems. There is what you would call a “Good Vibrations” feel about the atmosphere along these paths.

We can’t help but wonder if residents who are objecting to this modest proposal at Coulon Park have actually had the opportunity to stroll the Seattle parks and to witness just how well it works there. We recommend they see for themselves.

Strolling,

Robert Smith

Skyway