I am Preston Chappell, an avid boots-on-the-ground supporter of the grassroots group Citizens for Simpsonwood Conservancy (CSC). I want to make people aware of what is at stake with the upcoming sale of the Simpsonwood Retreat property. Before her death, Ludie Simpson gave her land to the Methodist church with what we believe to be the understanding that it would be forever kept in its natural state for people to enjoy. I walk the trails in Simpsonwood regularly and appreciate the wealth of plants and animals she was trying to protect.
But recently I’ve had to start walking nearby neighborhoods to gather signatures on the CSC's petition to keep Simpsonwood as beautiful as it is today. Amazingly, more than half the citizens I’ve spoken with do not know anything is happening to Simpsonwood—or equally as frightening—do not know what is at risk! Once I tell them, they sign immediately. Simpsonwood Retreat Center is the only natural treasure of its kind in Peachtree Corners. Signers want to save this pristine nature preserve, where animals thrive in their habitat and people are welcome to come and enjoy this gift. I hope the Methodist conference and the City of Peachtree Corners listens to this overwhelming voice of the community and decide to protect the wishes of Ludie Simpson by preventing any housing development.
The threat of development on the Simpsonwood property is very real. The immediate potential exists for the sale of some or all of the property to home developers. How depressing! For me, for generations to come, for the animals, for the community. What will the addition of 200 to 600 homes (depending upon zoning) mean? How will this impact our schools, roads, and other important services?
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Remember, once this land is changed it will never be changed back! If we don't act now it will be lost.
Act Now. CSC has more than 2,000 signatures…so far. Its petition is documenting, in very concrete terms, the opinion of Peachtree Corners citizens to keep Simpsonwood intact as a passive green space. You can add your voice by emailing us at simpsonwoodconservancy.csc@gmail.com. Or better yet, get involved. Come tonight to CSC’s Volunteer Rally, 7:00pm at Associated Credit Union at 6251 Crooked Creek Road, Peachtree Corners, 30092. You may also want to attend the UPCCA’s public meeting, Monday, Jan. 27th at 7:30pm at Christ the King Lutheran church on Peachtree Parkway.