I have read with much interest the many articles in the local newspaper concerning the development of Tollgate properties. And today, I examined a handout from the Friends of Tollgate who were passing out fliers in North Bend.
Most of the letters written in the local paper, as well as the handout, are very opposed to the development of the Tollgate farm area, as am I. There are all kinds of legal and environmental arguments as to why this area should not be developed. To restate them here would be of little value to the readers.
What I can offer, however, is my opinion. While I understand that the owners of Tollgate have a right to sell property they have owned for many years, I feel there must be a better end use for the land than a million square feet of business park and homes. There are other, more suitable locations for this type of development in the Valley.
Let’s put aside all the rhetoric about tribal issues, flood concerns, water and sewage problems for just a minute and address something else: If the city and county allow this beautiful area to be developed for industry and housing, the rural character of North Bend and the upper Snoqualmie Valley will be lost forever! This outcome cannot be disputed!
My family moved to this area for its rural character and charm. There is no question that this development will change the Valley in a negative way forever. With developments like this, it will soon be difficult to distinguish where North Bend stops and Issaquah starts.
Let’s look at different uses for Tollgate Farm that would allow it to retain its rural character such as park land. If progress dictates this land be developed, now is our opportunity to minimize the impact. A park environment such as Marymoor Park in Redmond, or even Central Park in New York, would be a fitting plan for such a majestic parcel of land.
Perhaps a joining of city, county and private funds and donations could purchase this land for future park development. Who could possibly object to a large rural park land that could eventually be developed with jogging, walking and biking trails and other amenities? We are a growing community and this property is at a key central location between North Bend and Snoqualmie. Now is our golden opportunity to act in order to preserve what we most cherish about our Valley and small communities.
Please, do whatever is within your power and authority and do what is right. Don’t allow this development to destroy our beautiful valley and its rural charm and character.
David W. Bettine
Snoqualmie
