Westneat’s idea is simple and brilliant

Danny Westneat’s column with his proposal to close the viaduct for a day, hold a citywide charrette and envision a “park in the sky” is simple and brilliant [“Save the viaduct! (part of it),” NWSunday, Jan. 23]. Having walked the High Line in Manhattan two years ago, I immediately thought of our viaduct and what a wonderful opportunity it presents for Seattle to create a beautiful and unique park.

I envision the park as Seattle’s balcony to the sound and city. It would be as if the entire city had a gigantic deck from which to watch the harbor, waterfront, the Olympics, the sunset to the West and the downtown skyline to the East. This park would be breathtaking, quiet and beautiful.

As president of the Genesee-Schmitz Neighborhood Council, I raised the idea with the Seattle Department of Transportation and the mayor’s office during meetings of the Southwest District Council, but the idea seemed to stir little enthusiasm. In the absence of strong, community support and leadership, this potential city treasure will be lost. Sadly, Seattle missed the opportunity for Westlake Park, and I hope we don’t repeat this mistake again.

Like the author of a letter to the editor in Tuesday’s Seattle Times [“Yes to a viaduct park,” Northwest Voices, Jan. 24], my wife and I would pledge money and time to see the “Seattle Park in the Sky” become a reality.

Come on people!

— Dick Miller, Seattle