I was shocked and dismayed to read in our Durango Herald that the 9-R school district is looking at selling its administrative building and property along with adjacent Buckley Park (“
I assumed that Buckley Park was part of Durango’s park system, but your article states it is owned by 9-R and therefore can be included in this sale.
I understand and have sympathy for school funding in Durango. I do understand the need to create additional revenue for our schools and can understand the sale of the 9-R administrative building if that is the only means of securing additional funds.
I would strongly disagree with the sale of Buckley Park, however, and I’m sure a lot of Durangoans feels the same way.
Buckley Park is the only park downtown and home to numerous festivals and events. Among those are Music in the Park, Iron Horse, San Juan Brew Fest and KSUT’s fundraiser, not to mention many others. The economic boost from festivals held downtown should also be an important consideration in this park’s preservation.
I would urge City Council, 9-R and the Parks and Rec board to get their heads together and come up with a solution to protect this key park in the heart of downtown Durango.
Mark KrabathDurango
