Purpose, Priorities and Goals of
Friends of Freedom Park

Friends of Freedom Park is non-profit, non-partisan and all-volunteer. It is an independent group for people anywhere who love Freedom Park and want to preserve and improve it. Supporters of FOFP live all over Mecklenburg County and even include former residents who now live in other states or countries. FOFP is an independent group, however, its members support the goals and purposes of the Freedom Park Neighborhood Association. We believe the quality of the surrounding neighborhood and character of Freedom Park are interdependent.

Purpose:

• Preservation of the natural resources of Freedom park
• Maintenance of a non-commercial environment
• Crime prevention and public safety
• Proper upkeep of park facilities
• Maintain ongoing positive dialogue with park officials

Major Concerns:

• Rising number of private "special events" in the lake area that generate funds for the park dept. but restrict the freedom of the general public to enjoy the park on weekends.
• Quality of life of local community is considered in any activity held in the park
• Freedom Park's unique location, history, natural setting, and special resources are respected and considered in any programs or activities
• Community is actively involved in setting park policy, not just reacting to it.

Some Historical Perspective: Why Are We Concerned?
Past/Current Conditions in Freedom Park:

Damage or neglect of landscape Crime/Vandalism Neglected park facilities Misuse of park land High noise levels Loss of green space Loss of trees

Speed Boats on lake pulling skiers! Fireworks Displays! Rock Concerts! "Sugar Creek Canal" Commercial Scheme! Thousands of teenage "cruisers"! "Freedom Bell" Tourism Scheme! Plan to Cut down older Cherry Trees

Priorities:

• Maintain landscape in a first class manner
• Protect all existing healthy trees
• Leave natural open areas as they are
• Plant more trees
• Better maintenance of park facilities
• Remove unnecessary buildings and reclaim green space
• Protect serenity, open space
• Restrict amplified sound in the park

Goals:

• A non-commercial environment
• A safe park
• No large buildings
• No more monuments
• No tourist attraction but a true "urban respite"