On Tuesday, May 26 from 5:30pm-7pm, an Open House will be held that will spell out the future for a roadway that runs through LaSalle Park. Over the years, LaSalle Park has been subjected to deterioration by neglect. At the same time The City has finally been dedicating funds to the park, which has brought about a new entranceway at DAR Drive, a skate plaza, a refurbished pool and splash pad, and a dog park. Now The City is planning a DAR Drive reconstruction, which is significant since the roadway runs right though the middle of the park.
The public is invited to attend the Open House, which will take place at the Niagara Branch Library (280 Porter Ave) in the basement. As much as this is great news for DAR Drive, it would be nice to hear comprehensive plans for the entire park moving forward. There are aspects that are in dire need of help, including the former seaplane launch (lead image) that looks like garbage and Amvets Drive that hugs the Black Rock Canal Channel.
LaSalle Park is full of opportunities that should be realized immediately. In my opinion, the roadway that runs along the water should be removed completely. There is no reason that cars need to approach the water. Similar to Delaware Park, people should be required to walk and bike along the water. This would help to alleviate the amount of litter that is left behind, and the illicit activities that take place in the park.
The old seaplane launch would make an awesome canoe and kayak launch point, and the grass surrounding the launch could be a staging area. There is a Facebook group that does follow this matter.