The CA Board's Planning and Strategy Committee, as indicated in the Master Plan, is eager to close ("repurpose" being the operative euphemism) three neighborhood village pools (Faulkner Ridge, Jeffers Hill, Talbott Springs).

At the CA Master Aquatics Plan Public Meeting on Jan. 31, many residents testified that they opposed the closing of their neighborhood pools. They stated eloquently and passionately that such closings would be a great loss.

And, they testified that should their pools be closed, going to the nearest alternate pool would, in many cases, require their children to cross highway 175, a most dangerous trek which these parents stated they would forbid.

The Master Plan uses as an excuse for closing the close proximity of certain pools (ex: Locust Park and Jeffers Hill), yet neglects to mention the problem of crossing Route 175. How come?

Jane Dembner, director, declares in her letter of Dec. 15 that the Aquatics Master Plan was developed by a task force of 23, was reviewed by seven focus groups, four public meetings, dozens of aquatics experts, thousands of hits at the web site. Yet no one spotted this serious problem? Columbia has wonderful athletic facilities — three state-of-the-art fitness clubs, an ice skating rink, a horse center, a sports/skate park, open space for various activities, 34 excellent tennis courts, two golf courses, four indoor pools.

And 23 outdoor pools. It is not too many, it is not too few. It is just right.

Richard W. Blank

Long Reach