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Resident urges county to create pocket park in Anvil neighborhood, citing child safety and green‑space needs
Summary
A local resident told commissioners that Lot 13 in the Anvil development lacks safe, accessible play space and asked the county to explore designating it a pocket park, consider landscaping covenants for future lots, and conduct a site visit with residents and the town.
A resident who identified herself as a teacher and mother (Speaker 7) urged San Juan County commissioners to consider dedicating a small lot in the Anvil neighborhood as a pocket park or green space and to require landscaping covenants for future development.
The speaker described narrow streets, lack of sidewalks, ongoing heavy construction, and a lack of nearby flat, safe play areas for children in the Anvil area. “I just don't think it's safe,” she said, noting children often play in parking lots or on steep, muddy slopes. She asked the county to consider Lot 13 as a designated green space, plant trees and benches, and to explore who would accept a donated parcel if that was the route.
Commissioners and staff discussed the lot’s buildability and soil/topsoil challenges; some attendees said Lot 13 appeared to be buildable but would require topsoil and work to be suitable for a park. County staff suggested options including a pocket park, boundary adjustments to truncate a lot corner for park space, or temporary green space with planters or low‑cost improvements while the town pursues larger park grants. The board also noted the possibility of coordinating with the town and the Silverton Housing Authority on covenants or grant opportunities for landscaping assistance.
The resident requested a site visit and a roundtable with Anvil stakeholders. Commissioners agreed to consider a site visit and further discussions with the town and housing authority, and staff noted they would raise the topic with the town administrator. No formal action or vote was taken on a park designation at this meeting.
Why it matters: The request highlights everyday safety and livability concerns tied to new housing development and illustrates how small parcels can affect child safety, air quality (dust), and neighborhood character.
