CONTENTIOUS POINT: Residents argue over children’s area in Palisades
KEN EDWARDS CENTER — Emotions ran high here Thursday night as neighbors living north of Montana Avenue squared off in a debate over whether or not to place a children’s playground near Inspiration Point in Palisades Park.
The contentious idea surfaced several months ago when residents with small children complained to the City Council and members of the Recreation and Parks Commission that there are no playgrounds within walking distance of their homes.
Many said that since they live in condominiums or apartment buildings, playing in the backyard is not an option for their children.Furthermore, they argued, for a city that prides itself on being environmentally conscious, forcing parents to drive in order to enjoy recreational opportunities is a lesson in contradiction.
“Lincoln Park is not an option for me,” said Louis Landon, a supporter of a playground at Inspiration Point. “It’s more than a mile away, which is like a 20 to 25 minute walk each way. It’s certainly not convenient. School play areas are also not an option because they are not open to kids during school hours, which is a time when most kids under 5 would be using them … I think the sounds of kids playing is pretty great and could serve as inspiration …”
The parents’ call to action prompted City Hall to investigate. Using data and digital mapping, city staff found that families are on the rise in the 90402 and 90403 ZIP codes, with both areas being “drastically underserved” when it comes to open space.
Staff presented their findings to the commission, which requested further research, including potential locations for a playground that would be 1,500 square feet, roughly 1 percent of the park’s 26 acres.
Staff recommended two locations, one at Inspiration Point, and the other near the picnic area between Palisades and Alta avenues.
As part of their recommendations, city staff suggested play equipment that would blend in with the natural landscape and be comparable in scale to other features at the park. City staff seemed to be leaning more toward Inspiration Point because of its proximity to restrooms, as well as its somewhat isolated location.
A playground has not been approved and is only an idea being considered by the commission.
Those in support of the playground said children need a safe place to run, jump, slide and interact with others their own age. Currently, kids run wild along long stretches of grass, running into joggers while picking up broken glass or other dangerous objects, parents said.
Those opposed said Palisades Park is a sanctuary where people of all ages can connect with nature, soak in a beautiful sunset and be at peace. One woman called it her “Valium.”
Placing a playground near Inspiration Point, or anywhere else, would destroy the ambiance, some residents said.
Some were also concerned about a “slippery slope,” envisioning a scenario in which senior citizen groups, dog lovers and others would want a piece of parkland carved out specifically for them.
Residents challenged City Hall to clean up existing parks by removing the homeless, thereby making it safe for children.
“Palisades is a place of tranquility and a place of solitude. When you look around, you see people finding their sanity,” said Rich Magram, who was joined by nearly a dozen residents in opposition to a playground.“You see painters, writers, poets.You see people finding balance … At Palisades Park, parents can introduce their children not to video games and constant amusement, but to something that is almost extinct, which is an appreciation of nature.
“I honestly believe a playground would eradicate and fully rape the magic that exists in such close proximity to the city,” Magram added. “I think it would be an abomination, taking away the heart and soul of the city if you put this inappropriate use there.”
Architectural historian Ruthann Lehrer, a member of the Landmarks Commission, expressed concern that the playground would somehow damage the integrity of the park as a historic landmark.
“This park is an essential element to Santa Monica … (with) it’s dazzling views of the ocean,”Lehrer said.“It is a very rich environment with a number of public monuments, sculptures, artwork and other public facilities … The entire park has historic value … It is a very unique place, and I believe the Landmarks Commission will be discussing granting historic status in the near future.”
While several members of the Recreation and Parks Commission seemed in favor of a playground at Palisades Park, the body delayed voting for or against the project and instead ordered city staff to convene a joint meeting with the Landmarks Commission to further discuss the issue, as well as devise a strategic plan for the future of the park.
“We do have a shortage of parks in the area,” said commissioner Ted Winterer. “I think there is a way to address everyone’s concerns and have a playground area with a very small footprint for toddlers under 5 or 6, something like that which respects the history of the park.”
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on September 23, 2006. Read the original PDF.