Following is a letter recently sent by the Visitacion Valley Task Force to Mayor Willie Brown concerning the local Reis Tracts.

Dear Mayor Brown:

On behalf of our community, the Visitacion Valley Task Force thanks you for your recent participation in the Community Boards Day of Dialogue on Race.

The Task Force asks for your support of the proposed Visitacion Valley Greenway on the six parcels of land known as the Reis Tracts in the Valley. This land is currently owned by the San Francisco Water Department, which is interested in selling it.

Our neighborhood was once a thriving agricultural center; ironically no fresh produce is available these days except from backyards and the community garden. The Visitacion Valley Greenway will combine agricultural areas, recreation areas and educational demonstration gardens, as well as a farmers' market plaza containing exhibits of neighborhood history and art. This will revitalize and transform our community, giving it an identity based on its history and an intelligent application of resources.

Among the Friends of Visitacion Valley Parks collaboration are schools and day care centers, which are within walking distance from the proposed Greenway and can benefit greatly from involvement with the Greenway. Visitacion Valley is not only one of the most diverse neighborhoods in San Francisco, but also has one of the highest percentages of children in the City. Hence, the Greenway can become a safe place for urban children to explore nature on their own.

This project offers us an opportunity to build a stronger community by bringing all of the Valley's diverse population to work, learn and play together. Thus, the Task Force urges you to endorse the creation of the Visitacion Valley Greenway.

Respectfully,
Joel Tate,
Task Force Acting Chair