12/07/2023
Letter from Director – The Next 100 Years
As we come to the end of the year that culminates celebrating our centennial milestone, we can reflect and take pride in our City’s rich history that laid the foundation of the vibrant community we cherish today. As we look forward to the future, it’s with equal hope and excited anticipation of what the next 100 years has in store for us.
Looking back on the planned conception of Longview, we are reminded of the visionary individual who sought to create a community that values a high quality of life for all residents and those who visit us. The echoes of that vision continue to resonate in the fabric of our city, and it is our collective responsibility to uphold and build upon the dreams of our founders.
“Until Longview gives every man, woman, and child within its limits an opportunity to live happily, to improve mind, soul, and body Longview has an unfinished task… Let it never be said of Longview that it permitted its high ideals to perish, for they must forever be the soul of the city.” - Robert A. Long, 1925
As we set our sights on the future, we must draw inspiration from the past and commit ourselves to fostering an environment that reflects the values on which Longview was built. A key element to our commitment for the future is our dedication to maintaining a vibrant, safe, and active park and recreation system. Our parks have always been more than just green spaces—they are communal gathering points, centers of activity, and havens for recreation and relaxation. As we envision the next 100 years, it is imperative that we prioritize the continued maintenance of our parks and recreation facilities.
Sidney Hare, part of the architectural firm Hare and Hare who helped build Longview, said in his famous essay “Influence of Surroundings” “Show me a city without parks and boulevards and I’ll show you a people far behind the times in every way.”
A robust park and recreation system is not merely an amenity; it is the catalyst that defines why people choose to live here and what attracts others to relocate their lives and businesses here. Moreover, a safe and active park and recreation system aligns seamlessly with the values of our city's founders as they made it a priority to create parks within their newly planned city. Parks create a sense of community pride, foster a love for outdoor activities, and promote a healthy lifestyle that resonates with individuals and businesses alike. Longview's parks and recreation facilities are not just an asset; they are a strategic advantage, distinguishing our city as a destination for those seeking an exceptional quality of life.
In the spirit of our centennial celebration, let us unite to envision and shape the next chapter of Longview's history. By recognizing a vibrant park and recreation system as essential infrastructure, we affirm our commitment to creating a city that attracts residents and businesses alike, positioning Longview in the next 100 years as a beacon of growth and prosperity.
As we embark on this journey together, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your continued support and dedication to the success of our beloved city. Through collaborative efforts, we can build upon the legacy of our founders, ensuring that Longview remains a community that inspires, innovates, and thrives.
Thank you for being an integral part of the next exciting chapter in Longview's history.
