A local resource drowning in neglect
After years of underinvestment, the Metropolis of San Jose is lastly taking motion on Lake Cunningham, thanks partially to funding from state and regional companions.
Neglect has taken its toll on Lake Cunningham Regional Park, as soon as a vibrant park within the coronary heart of our East San Jose group. Restoring Lake Cunningham isn’t just an train in nostalgia, it’s a accountability we owe to the environment, our group and future generations of San José residents. The trouble to revive the lake is a shared accountability that entails a partnership between authorities, nonprofits and the personal sector.
By committing to this endeavor, we are able to showcase our dedication to environmental conservation, biodiversity safety and the general well-being of one another. The transformation of this 203-acre park is not going to solely enrich our lives in the present day however will function a legacy of our dedication to a sustainable future. By restoring the park’s pure habitats, we are able to present a sanctuary for native wildlife to flourish as soon as once more. Such actions usually are not simply helpful for the environment, however additionally they improve the standard of life for the encircling group, making our metropolis extra sustainable and livable. Improved leisure open area, entry to strolling trails and locations for folks to collect and construct group are pivotal outcomes we are able to obtain collectively.
To my fellow metropolis, county, state and federal authorities representatives, we pave the way in which for complete funding options. Your assist can deal with numerous aspects of restoration, together with leisure enhancements, infrastructure upgrades and water-quality enhancements. This funding serves as a testomony to the worth we place on the well being and well-being of our residents.
The Metropolis of San Jose not too long ago acquired a much-needed increase towards enhancing Lake Cunningham Park within the type of a $1.5 million appropriation within the 2023-2024 state finances led by Assemblymember Ash Kalra. The Santa Clara Valley Open House Authority additionally not too long ago awarded funding to Lake Cunningham as a part of its 2023-2024 grant cycle. This funding marks a vital step towards revitalizing the park, however it’s only the start of the journey. With formidable plans to revive the park to its former glory, it’s my hope that these preliminary investments will act as a catalyst for the tens of millions of extra funds required to realize this imaginative and prescient. Rep. Jimmy Panetta additionally submitted a federal earmark request, and leaders at Valley Water have indicated their curiosity in Lake Cunningham’s revitalization. Moreover, Santa Clara Supervisor Sylvia Arenas is bringing the county to the desk to contribute towards this collective effort.
To my non-profit and personal sector companions, your assist is equally important within the restoration course of. Private and non-private organizations that thrive in our group have a singular collaborative alternative by investing in Lake Cunningham’s rejuvenation via company sponsorships, donations or partnerships. Lake Cunningham may develop into a testomony to what we are able to obtain when governments, nonprofits, companies and residents unite for a standard trigger.
Lake Cunningham holds immense potential to develop into a cherished and thriving open area as soon as once more, and with continued assist and assets, I goal to show this dream right into a actuality. Residents of East San Jose and, extra broadly, Silicon Valley are demanding motion. It’s time for his or her leaders to behave. Restoring this pure treasure requires an formidable effort that transcends private and non-private spheres. By pooling assets from all ranges of presidency, along with personal funding, we are able to embark on a transformative journey to rejuvenate Lake Cunningham, benefitting each the environment and our group.
Domingo Candelas represents District 8 on the San Jose Metropolis Council.
