Daily News Tribune
Posted May 03, 2009 @ 11:52 PM

We extend a thank you to the Waltham City Council for voting to approve the purchase of the 6.5 acres of Lot 1 in Waltham. This is an important step in the ongoing effort to preserve the open space and natural resources of our city. With the conservation restriction inherent in the purchase of this land using CPA funds, the Council's action protects not only the Waltham acreage, it eliminates the egress that could make future development possible on the 47.5 acres of Lot 1 in Lexington.

Lot 1 was identified as one of Waltham's 10 priority open space acquisitions by the Committee to Study Land Acquisition for the Preservation of Open Space. The land is also an essential component of the Western Greenway. Active projects in the Greenway are creating a network of trails for public recreational use that will engage more people of all ages in healthful outdoor activity.

The Waltham Land Trust applauds the City's action. This is a significant contribution to the preservation and conservation of Waltham's open spaces, making available additional acres for public use and continuing to enhance the quality of life in Waltham.

NADENE STEIN, president, Waltham Land Trust