As a resident and voting stakeholder in Greensboro, NC, Fisher Park is very special to me and many others. Its unique nature and authenticity have not only been a source of tranquil enjoyment for me, my dog and my family, but it also stands as a historic hallmark of our community. The towering trees, lush foliage, and serene environment contribute immensely to the beauty and charm of the Fisher Park neighborhood.

 Unfortunately, plans to remove a number of cherished shade trees to pave the way for a new "Gathering Space" will only:

• threaten to alter the landscape drastically and irreversibly
• disrupt long-established eco-systems impacting flora and fauna that call this park home
• eliminate much needed shade provided by these trees
• newly planted trees as a "canopy" will take years to mature

 Implementing a large (almost 2000 sq. ft.) blue-stone patio-like "Gathering Space" into the field,  will:

• look much like so many other large, homogenized and heavily manicured public parks (e.g., like Tanger Bicentennial Park).
• increase urban heat effects as our temps increasingly rise
• possibly attract unhoused visitors providing a flat space for them to sleep on
• invite small events that could be noisy to surrounding neighbors 

This field is where dogs romp, children play, and sunbathers and picnickers spread out blankets for  some  r&r and some wide open space surrounded by nature.

The vision for this is NOT Fisher Park. It may need repair and restoration, but it does not need CHANGING! There is perfection in its original beauty and it's our responsibility to care for it and protect it. I suspect there are many good ways to use the money that was dedicated to this initiative but in ways that would sustain it, not develop it in ways that are disruptive and unnecessary.

Many residents don't feel a Gathering Space is even needed at all, but rather the whole park is a gathering space with natural (or stone) destinations throughout. Many facets of the Master Plan are strongly supported by most everyone, e.g., restoration & repair of existing stone work, benches, tree  and shrub maintenance, & updating park pathways for ADA (American Disabilities Act) compliance.

We urge Greensboro City Council and the developers involved in this project to halt the current plans and engage with local residents in ways that allow for greater communication & participation so that we are sufficiently heard, and able to understand what the majority of residents desire after being more fully informed and involved. By signing this petition, you are taking a stand for historic preservation, environmental responsibility, and sustainable community development.