Letter to the Editor: In excitement over light rail station, don't forget to preserve wetlands

To the Editor:

I am writing another letter to the Planning Commission as I have done over the years to explain why it is so important to remember not only in word but in deed the value of open spaces, in this case Paramount (Open Space) Park which also happens to be a wetland, home of Little's Creek with a “direct” route to Thornton Creek.

I don't seem to be able to make the points in a way that can truly be understood by those who don't want to understand. And I'm not the only one. Many like me have put forth the reasons for preserving and protecting wetlands and forests for their benefit to us.

The fact is they filter our air of pollution, provide a sound barrier to traffic, and a visual softening of the built community. The health benefits are emotional and psychological as well as physical. They control rain water runoff and provide drainage and they are just there already. No need to build something artificial at a cost to taxpayers to provide these needed services.

Those of us who see the downside of construction encroaching on the green environment and the resulting loss of the natural treasures in our midst often sound like a broken record, I know, but what is our option when those we are speaking to, the powers that be, do not seem to get it and are blinded by the excitement of the new 145th St light rail station? Please let's go slow on the proposed massive rezoning of eastern Shoreline and the widening of NE 145th St.

Vicki Westberg
Shoreline