Save Bethel Park~
Okay, say it with a smile on your face while you grit your teeth…”Here We Grow Again!”According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Forsyth County is the fifth fastest growing county in the United States. How exciting, BUT there is a time to step back and say “Not sooo fast.”
Bethel Park is a 62 acre wooded day-use park on Lake Lanier which is owned by the taxpayer and managed by the Army Corps of Engineers. According to the Corps, 21,528 visitors used Bethel Park last year…and this was only counting the vehicle traffic (not the hikers, boater, and bikers – Harley or Schwin).
Did you know that the park is in danger of being CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC!
“Why?” I’m glad you asked.
The Metro Atlanta YMCA plans to develop the land for its own purposes. If this project commences, much of the forest will be scalped to build 118,000 sq ft of structure, marinas, 1000 gallon lakeside fuel station, ball fields, pool, four amphitheaters, parking lots, cabins, dining hall, etc. The YMCA Camp would displace all public users of Bethel Park as it stands today.
Gary White of the Georgia Forestry Commission reminds us of this:
“There are few remaining natural areas to be found such as Bethel Park in our developed communities. The US Forest Service’s Assessment of the Southern Forest found that the greatest threat to the health of the forest here in the South is pressure from growth and development. Many people come to North Georgia for the scenery and the views and we have some of the fastest growing counties in the nation here in North Georgia. We are at a crossroads in Georgia. Decisions that we make today about how we develop and grow in Georgia will affect the quality of life for us now and how the landscape will look for our children in the future. Growth will come, but it is important that we consider our options and determine how that growth will occur.”
It is essential for us to preserve our parks and green space to accommodate growth and secure a place for all families and children to meet, explore, and discover nature for generations to come.
The future of Forsyth County is our responsibility. Once lost to privatization and development, green space such as Bethel Park can never be replaced.
Go to www.savebethelpark.com and Sign the petition to save Bethel Park.
What's happening in the Forsyth County GA real estate market? I'll tell you my humble opinion on things going on in my small part of the world. I'll let you know details about the subdivisions that I specialize in and details about the really nice homes that come on the market.
