Monday evening, the city of Columbus held a public meeting at Trotter Convention Center to discuss survey results for Propst Park and provide a draft plan for the park based on those results.
The survey asked a variety of questions in an effort to determine what improvements could be made to the 100-plus acre park to better serve the recreational needs of those who use the park and make it appeal to more citizens. In addition to numerous suggested amenities included in the survey, it also provided an opportunity for respondents to suggest their own ideas.
The survey was available on the mayor’s Facebook page from December until Jan. 7. People could also pick up hard copies of the survey at city hall.
In light of Monday’s meeting, it is time to ponder some questions that no one really wants to consider, but probably should.
Only 84 people responded to the survey and only about 30 people turned out Monday evening to learn the results of the survey and the tentative plans that are based on those responses.
Those numbers beg any number of questions. First and foremost, do the citizens of Columbus care about Propst Park, or has it become a relic of an era when that stretch along Alabama Street was a natural gathering place for the community?
If the responses reflect that view, a question follows: Can Columbus citizens be made to care? In the private sector, a business owner or investor wants answers to a lot of questions and one of the most important questions is this: What is the market for what I am selling? The answer to that question determines the scale and scope of the business plan. This is why a business that sells cell phone covers operates out of a kiosk rather than a 10,000 square foot storefront.
These are certainly questions that warrant serious attention as plans for Propst Park proceed, questions that urge caution.
Fortunately, what we see in the draft plan presented Tuesday allows for that. There are some elements of the plan that have a natural appeal that recognizes both the current reality and unknown but hoped for potential.
Reconfiguring traffic flow so that the park property is no longer a drive-through for residents in the area protects the integrity of the park and promotes safety. Better parking and lighting are elements that appeal to current and prospective visitors. And, about all else, repairing, improving and maintaining the existing facilities are measures that can and should be taken without hesitation.
Perception is important and when our public spaces are well-equipped, well-maintained and appealing, it creates a spirit of optimism, which may be the one thing Propst Park needs most of all.
We encourage city leaders to move, but move cautiously on these plans.
The good news is that the “tender loving care” Propst Park needs to restore public confidence is probably the least costly and most justifiable part of this plan.
It would be a good faith first step that might revive public interest in the old park.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 32 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.