We, the undersigned residents of the Felida neighborhood, respectfully request that the Vancouver Public School District restore pedestrian access across the vacant district-owned property leading to Sorenson Neighborhood Park.

The currently restricted area is not an active school campus, does not contain school buildings, and is not used for ongoing student activities. For many years, local residents, including families with young children and seniors, safely used this pathway to access the neighborhood park. The recent closure has significantly limited safe and convenient access for many members of the community.

We understand the School District’s concerns regarding illegal or unsafe activity involving individuals riding quads, dirt bikes, or other motorized vehicles across the open field. However, closing access to the entire community does not address the root issue and instead disproportionately impacts on responsible residents who simply want safe pedestrian access to the park.

The current restrictions create unnecessary barriers for:

• Families with children seeking safe outdoor recreation
• Seniors and residents with limited mobility
• Neighbors who rely on walkable access to community green space
• Residents attempting to avoid longer and less safe alternate routes

We respectfully ask the School District to consider alternative solutions that specifically target unauthorized motorized activity without eliminating pedestrian access for the broader community. Possible solutions may include:

• Installing pedestrian access gates or barriers that prevent motorized vehicle entry
• Increased signage and enforcement against illegal vehicle use
• Designated walking pathways
• Collaboration with local law enforcement or community organizations to address unsafe behavior directly

We believe there is a balanced solution that protects the property while preserving safe community access to the neighborhood park.

We respectfully request that the School District:

• Reevaluate the current closure of the vacant property access route
• Restore safe pedestrian access for local residents
• Explore targeted solutions that address illegal motorized vehicle activity without restricting responsible community use

Our community values safe outdoor spaces, walkability, and access to recreation. We hope the School District will work collaboratively with residents to find a practical and fair solution that benefits everyone.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

The Undersigned Community Residents.