Stephanie Elson, New Yorkers For Parks

"As we move forward in rebuilding Manhattan, it is important to recognize parks and open spaces as a vital part of these efforts. In the future, Lower Manhattan parks can serve as grounds for a memorial, uniting New York City's residents. A Lower Manhattan park can become an integral component of a successful business and residential community, just like Battery Park uniting businesses and residents in the area. And they can act as a key element of sustainable development downtown by giving back to the community and enhancing the quality of life, the economy and the environment. In the past months, parks have been the chosen spaces for collective healing and remembering. Parks are a common ground. Within the hours after Sept. 11 people began gathering in parks. This diverse gathering in parks is a fact that has been emphasized time and time again and is critical in the planning of Lower Manhattan."