An ad hoc committee organized to come up with ideas for making the Alvord Lake entrance to Golden Gate Park more inviting, had its second meeting last week.

Attendees included three Park Station Police Officers, three Rec & Parks employees (and one retired Rec & Park employee), two art students from the Academy of Art, one representative of Supervisor Olague’s office, and eight neighborhood residents.

The art students presented their class projects which had the site at Alvord Lake as a “challenge project” for them. Both projects, while interesting, were focused on architectural enhancements that seemed to go beyond what the group is seeking.

The officer representing Captain Corrales outlined to the group the complexity of the social scene now existing at the site, and reminded us that not everyone there is selling drugs. One officer reported on the problem created by the garden between the pillars, which serves as a hiding place for drugs and seating. He suggested that the garden be removed and an information kiosk/booth be installed.

Most of the resident comments and ideas dealt with landscaping alternatives for the area, and the idea of an information kiosk/booth met with positive interest.

The next meeting of the group (as yet unnamed) will be at the site on Saturday, October 27 at noon. This is the normal work day of a group of volunteers who regularly work with Rec & Park gardeners from 9-12. Bring your work gloves and ideas!