The St. Louis County Council has given final approval for plans to put a zip-line course in Creve Coeur Park.
Several residents, however, told council members Tuesday night that the location of the course will disturb native bird populations and disrupt an otherwise tranquil section of the park.
Deborah Moulton said the county should have done a better job getting public input.
“We think the public has a right and a duty to come and have a conversation with you,” Moulton said. “Right now that conversation hasn’t happened.”
Council Chairwoman Kathleen Kelly Burkett, who represents the district where the course will be located, said they followed the normal approval process.
Before casting her vote, though, she apologized to constituents who felt like she could have done a better job reaching out for their feedback.
The course will be built and operated by Maryland-based company Go Ape, and several residents also questioned why a private company should be able to turn a profit on county parkland.
Burkett said despite those concerns, there’s nothing new about the idea and that the county will also generate revenue.
"Last year, when we were looking at the prospect of closing some parks, it was brought forth by the public to maybe look for some private-public partnership to raise funds for the park," Burkett said "This is not a new idea.”
It’s estimated that the zip-line course will bring in up to $60,000 in revenue for the county during the first year and $100,000 annually after that.
How much will it cost to fling yourself through the trees? $55 for adults, $35 for kids, and you’ll need to be at least ten years of age.
Follow Tim Lloyd on Twitter: @TimSLloyd
