Brookmeade Park reopening draws residents; public raised concerns about unhoused people on greenways

Didi Bird, who identified herself as a resident of District 35, told commissioners she attended the Brookmeade Park reopening and thanked staff and volunteers. "We're hoping for a disc golf course. We are trying to involve all our community businesses… and we are moving forward with transparency and communication," Bird said.

Another resident who spoke at the public comment period raised concerns about prior remarks he recalled from a staff orientation, asking whether the division planned to remove people who set up on greenways. He described experiences at Brookmeade and Richland Park and asked why taxpayer and donor money should be spent if open spaces would not be kept safe and clean.

Cindy Harrison, speaking for the Greenways Division, said she did not recall the exact remark the resident referenced. She said Metro intends to help people who are unhoused find housing, and that the work involves multiple Metro divisions, the homeless commission, parks police, nonprofits and other partners. "Our intention is to keep our greenways open and clean, but also to have compassion and treat those folks who need assistance with the resources that we have to provide that assistance," Harrison said.

Commissioners and staff noted that the opening ceremony included remarks by the parks board chair and parks police on how they will be present at the reopened site, and that ongoing community involvement is important to keep greenways active and well maintained.