Dear Editor,
(Also an open letter to all members of Maple Ridge council)
RE: Potential closure of Maple Ridge Golf Course
[TOP STORIES OF THE YEAR: City hall plans to repurpose Maple Ridge Golf Course, Jan. 2, The News]
I am writing to add our voice to those who are opposed to the possible closure of the Maple Ridge Golf Course located on Golf Lane, off of 207 Street, in order to add another baseball field.
This facility has provided an extremely popular recreational venue to the citizens and guests in our community for a great many years. A transition to another use is at best an ill-conceived idea when there is so much idle land owned by Maple Ridge that could provide a more appropriate location, better access and parking, and certainly topography that would allow construction without needing to consider the extreme gradients on the property, which are part of the current conditions.
The hilly topography are highly desirable conditions on a golf course, adding variety and enjoyment to a game of golf, but would need to be eliminated or undergo major amendments to allow a ball diamond or diamonds to be constructed on this property.
My wife and myself had the opportunity to play nine holes of golf recently, as weather conditions were perfect to get out and enjoy this community facility – which I would hasten to add has a reasonable rate structure for those who might find the larger commercial courses a little more than they wish to pay.
During our round, we noted that the course had most of the holes in play, and those players consisted of groups of teenagers, a number of elderly players, (ourselves included in this age range), mixed men and ladies foursomes and twosomes, players who included very skillful and powerful hitters, and those with less skill who were likely beginners.
A clear demonstration that this gem of a course appeals to all ages and levels of play.
Maple Ridge Golf Course lends itself well to various levels of play, particularly those beginners who might not wish to attempt a larger course until they have accomplished a higher level of skill.
You will shortchange your residents, and you may never have an opportunity to create another venue of this type in this community.
In conclusion, we urge mayor and council to re-consider any decision to remove this local facility from any possibility of change or removal, and thank you for taking our thoughts into consideration.
Pat and Dianne Brooks, Maple Ridge