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prevent tree loss if roots are disturbed. Ms. Quinn also referenced recent City Communications celebrating an award for natural resources management, which highlighted the importance of preservation. She urged the Commission to prioritize saving both the mature trees and the privacy of the abutting neighbors, who did not expector want to live next to a park. O. Gault,2021 Herschel St. O. Gault, 2021 Herschel Street, spoke in favor of retaining the path. She noted that she walks the path year-round and, although it has never been shoveled, neighbors continue to use it in the winter. She emphasized that residents are not asking for anything new but simply want to continue using the existing walking path, which she has relied on for the 30 years she has lived in the neighborhood. Ms. Gault explained that she was unaware until the initial vacate notice that some abutting property owners did not want people walking on the ROW. In response to the closing of the path she created an on-linepetition, and within one week it received 98 signatures representing 68 households, all supporting the continuation of the path. She expressed regret that the issue has become divisive between abutting homeowners and the rest of the neighborhood. However, she emphasized her hope that both the path and the greenspace can be preserved. D. Urswell,1731 Shryer D. Urswell, 1731 Shryer Avenue, spoke in favor of preserving the path. She expressed concern for children living on Mid Oaks, noting that without the path they cannot move between neighborhoods without running across busy streets. She emphasized that the path has served as a well-established neighborhood connection for more than 30 years and that it is unfair to isolate children by removing it. Ms. Urswell stated that children should have the opportunity to take the healthier route of walking along the path, rather than being forced to rely on motor vehicles to travel between neighborhoods or access local community amenities. J. Pribyl, 1738 Skillman Ave. J. Pribyl, 1738 Skillman Avenue, spoke in support of the path. He stated that he enjoys using the path and appreciates that this unique situation is being given thoughtful and creative consideration. He noted that the path serves as a connector between neighborhoods as well as to the University of Minnesota agricultural fields, which welcome walkers and providesa large open space for recreation that his family takes advantage of often. Mr. Pribyl also highlighted the importance of the trees, noting that they have long existed alongside and within the ROW. He expressed appreciation that everyone’s input is being considered and that the process has allowed neighbors to hear and understand each other’s perspectives. 6