The former Getty gas station at South Broadway and Rt. 50

A story I published in Wednesday's paper sparked an interesting discussion in the newsroom this afternoon. I wrote that, once demolished, the city might consider purchasing the land currently occupied by an abandoned gas station at the intersection of Rt. 50 and South Broadway. The city would reportedly use the lot as a "pocket park." But I should note that any intention the city has or does not have to purchase the land is, at this point, purely speculative. But it does raise some questions.

Should the city use public funds to buy a parcel of land, less than one acre, for any purpose? Is it worth buying land that, given its commercial surroundings, is unlikely to be used for recreation? Is purchasing the land worthwhile, just to have a little green in an otherwise urban area? On the other hand, if, once the danger to public safety is mitigated, would it be better to allow the private Crowne Oil corporation to continue holding the land?

And, if the city does by the land, should there be one bench or two in the park?

Mayor Scot Johnson is holding his intentions regarding the property close to his chest, although he has acknowledged that there are contemplations in City Hall about purchasing the lot. Me, I think a little green in the city is always a nice thing, but I do worry that a green park at that intersection might become clogged with Dunkin Donut coffee cups and napkins, so as to no longer be so green.

Thoughts?