Rink Proposal a Game of Compromise

Whether to build a roller hockey rink at Studio City Recreation Center might seem like a simple enough proposition. Kids have been playing in the park’s parking lot for years and parents finally scraped together enough money through donations and grants to build a proper rink. Rather than applauding the parents’ volunteer efforts, though, neighbors around the park griped that the new facility would be too loud, too bright, too big and too ugly--touching off a nasty fight over just how much use of a public park is too much.

Already, the park--nestled among homes on quiet streets--hosts tennis courts and a playground as well as baseball and softball diamonds. Already, parking is difficult on some days during baseball and hockey seasons. So neighbors have a point: Shoehorning even more facilities into the tiny park might overload it. But proponents of the rink also have a point: Parks ought to reflect the tastes of those they serve. In this case, the park serves kids and kids like roller hockey.

The two sides have begun meeting with representatives from Los Angeles City Councilman Mike Feuer’s office, but discussions so far have focused on defining each side’s concerns--which really aren’t that far apart. Both want the park to provide the recreation it was designed for, but neighbors rightly want safeguards to ensure that the park does not become a nuisance.

Keeping a public park alive requires careful management, aggressive oversight by neighbors and visitors and a fair amount of give and take. A rink can be built without disrupting either the traditional uses of the park or the surrounding neighborhood. Is it the facility supporters want? Probably not. It’s smaller, has a few more rules attached and a few fewer amenities. But it’s better than no rink, which is what many neighbors want.