For recent critics or those simply questioning the Open Space Alliance's efforts to save the Fourth Street Preserve: I understand the desire to leave the land exactly as it is, but it’s important to know that the long-term protection of this land depends on a conservation easement that requires public access. That condition is non-negotiable and was essential in securing the state funding needed to protect the land in the first place. It is equally important to trust the work being done by professionals to ensure long-term preservation success and to support them in the ways that we can.
For those curious about the project and interested in learning their plans for the space, the organization has been extremely transparent with their efforts online at osalewes.org and is working alongside some of the best naturalists to ensure success. I applaud the work done by Pam Costanzi and her team to save this land and feel strongly that conservation efforts will be completed in a way that is best for the land and its inhabitants.
This is part of the vision: to protect this land while allowing the community to respectfully enjoy and learn from it for generations to come.