Letter: Future of Bamboo Village brighter than imagined

Editor, The Banner:

In regard to Charlie Strader's comments on Jan. 14 about the future of Bamboo Village (now known as Imperial Landing) and his walking trip through it, I imagine that Charlie's walking trip was a lonely experience, as no one ever utilizes this park.

If it is so special as green space and a park, why is no one ever there? I also disagree with his gloomy comments about the city's plans for this parcel. It was purchased about three years ago in spite of the same type of short-sighted comments specifically to provide a catalyst for the redevelopment of Old 41.

Making it a warehouse for unwanted, functionally-deficient historic structures not only would alter their relationship to the community, but also would not provide the destination and residential aspects needed for the redevelopment efforts. Also, if this did happen, would not this use also impact stormwater management and require additional parking?

The successful developer of this parcel will have to build according to strict city standards — much stricter than typical developers — which will include environmental best practices, river access, architectural compatibility, and attractive uses. They will be a long-term partner with the city in the effort to revitalize Old 41. Additional parks, green space, and a historic building repository, which incidentally exists in Riverside Park just across Old 41 Road, simply cannot provide the same opportunities.

Tax revenues are important, but this council has, not once, done anything solely because it will enhance tax revenues. We all know Old 41, as it is was becoming a drag on the whole community and something had to be done to reverse this trend before its proliferation impacted the whole community. Someone had to be first and it was the city that set this course which should not be altered. The long term success of any community's endeavor hinges, in a large part, on its willingness to follow through.

— Gary A. Price / city manager, Bonita Springs