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Letter From a Concerned Citizen
June 4, 1996 To Whom it May Concern, I am writing in regards to the proposed development on the south side of Denali. I am strongly opposed to the Proposed Action, and do not really support any of the alternatives. I appreciate that Talkeetna was not in any of the alternatives at this time, but it appears that it has been left open to possible consideration at a later date. I am asking that any mention of Talkeetna as a potential development site be removed from the plan once and for all, as was promised residents at earlier public hearings. I am very strongly opposed to the use of the Tokositna Valley as a site, because of its current status as relatively untouched wilderness, and the devastation it wall cause to animal and plant populations in that area. It is also a tremendously expensive option, because of the length of road and difficult terrain involved in gaining access. That area is currently use by hikers and climbers, and I would like to see it remain pristine. Remember that a view cuts two ways, and with the proposed huge visitors' center anyone hiking or climbing within miles of that area would have to gaze upon civilization rather than being able to enjoy a true wilderness experience. There must be a place that could provide visitors with a view of Denali without sticking out like a sore thumb on the tundra! If one of the proposed alternatives is chosen, I would like to suggest that Parks plan to purchase all the inholdings on the south end of Denali State park, in order to insure that strip development doesn't make that road corridor look like Wasilla. If purchase is not possible, then some serious zoning ordinances need to be put in place. I am a resident of Talkeetna, but also have a cabin just south of the state park, and I am not please with the thought of that as a booming development zone. Controlled development, maybe, but not random do-as-you-please! Consider, if you will a site above Mary Carey's, on the east side of the road. On the map it is labeled 1980', and there is a lake at 1787'. This site is back off the highway, which would give visitors more of a Park experience than having a Center right on the highway, would not impact an untouched area, and would also be more easily accessible than the Tokositna. Thank you for your time, Sincerely, Carolyn S. Sayre |
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