I encourage EVERYONE to write in as this is of great important to the community. I was happy after writing my email to receive a response:

Dear Mr. [Ross]:

Thank you for sending us your comments on the draft CapitalSpace plan. We have been receiving comments from a number of District residents, and while diverse, we’ve heard from a number of people regarding public accessibility to open space at the Armed Forces Retirement Home. While the public comment period continues through December 8, our partner agency team is already reviewing these comments and discussing responses. We’ll keep you informed as we move forward.

Thanks again for your comments,

Jeff Hinkle

This is what I wrote: I am writing to beseech you to consider keeping Park Land at the Old Soldier’s Home. Trails, parks and playgrounds are among the top three most important community amenities considered when selecting a home, according to the National Association of Home Builders and National Association of Realtors. The quality of life, the environment, and education possibilities would increase with parks. I understand there must be balance of land usages from residential, commercial and industrial, as well as parks and open space. But please do not let parks get lost in the discussion.

thanks for the clarification! i was under the misimpression it was like a couple dozen WWII vets in their eighties living there.

Parks are always good, that this is a military reservation,please consider contacting Archdiocese of Military Services on the usage of the land, as it should never become a city there as it has been in that state, semi rural, since Abraham Lincoln’s time.