Wright’s Field in Alpine is already a park, whatever people call it

Re “Alpine community park blocked by lawsuit” (Nov. 2): This article overlooked the basic fact about Wright’s Field — it is already a park! Native grassland and Engelmann Oak woodland are rare and endangered habitats, as are the species within. The community walks, hikes and rides on its trails to enjoy scenic beauty. It is a natural park beloved by those fortunate to live in Alpine and beyond.

The county was reminded over and over again that destruction of rare native habitats is a violation of environmental law. The county publicly expressed this many years ago when some were attempting to build a high school there. The impact can’t be mitigated, it said.

If we require a park with amenities like ballfields, we have large underutilized properties owned by Grossmont and Alpine School Districts. Each is connected safely and conveniently on or near Alpine Boulevard. Residents continue to pay for these properties through school bond measures.

Wright’s Field is a jewel that only needs gentle stewardship, not bulldozers.

— Don Hohimer, Alpine