BY KYLE DICKMAN
Los Alamos

I have great respect for Georgia Strickfaden’s long record of stewardship of our community’s trails and open spaces. Her recent editorial (https://losalamosreporter.com/2025/12/16/lte-north-mesa-park-master-plan-beware-adjacent-neighborhoods/) reflects the kind of care and vigilance that has helped preserve the character of Los Alamos for decades. At the same time, several points she raises about the North Mesa Park Master Plan deserve clarification so residents can make informed judgments.

First, the plan does not remove the existing paved walking paths. In fact, it calls for improving and maintaining existing trails, and extending walking space on the park’s western side. This should ensure accessibility for walkers, joggers, families, dog owners, and neighbors of all abilities. The quiet experience people enjoy today is not being eliminated.

It is also important to note that residents seeking an extended, more natural walking experience have immediate access to Kwage Mesa, which offers nearly four miles of open-space trail less than a quarter mile from the paved loop. Nothing in the Master Plan affects that resource. 

Second, the suggestion that the planning process was “dominated” by cyclists overlooks the extensive outreach undertaken by Site Southwest. The team hosted multiple meetings, open houses, and surveys intended to reach all users. While not everyone could attend, those who did—cyclists included—participated simply because they saw a rare opportunity to advocate for their needs. The bike community has long sought bike infrastructure, but their presence did not come at the exclusion of other voices.

Third, the claim that bike advocates rejected “other viable and larger pieces of open space” is inaccurate. The Bike Park Working Group examined four potential locations throughout Los Alamos. North Mesa met critical criteria: proximity to the middle school, access to public transit and emergency services, and compatibility with environmental and engineering requirements. No alternative sites were formally offered or declined. North Mesa was ultimately chosen as the preferred location because during this same time the County was developing the North Mesa Master Plan. Because of this, the Bike Park Working Group decided it made the most sense to advocate for the inclusion of the bike park at this location.

North Mesa is valued by many groups. It’s our hope and belief that this plan will improve quality of life for walkers, riders, gardeners, families, and neighbors for decades to come.