The recent news of Nassau County's plan to convert the old sump near Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Massapequa is excellent for the community.

Massapequa is definitely a community that deserves to have more recreational facilities within residential areas. Whenever a store closes up, or an old home is torn down, our village, town, and county governments should strongly consider the option of purchasing this land for recreational use.

Back in the 1940s and 1950s when suburbia was just being created, the push for open space seemed to be a high priority. But today, that priority seems to have gotten lost somewhere.

More parks, swings, sandboxes, ball fields, water fountains, area beaches, and nature preserves build healthy communities, give children a place to exercise themselves and their creativity, and also add to the value of neighboring homes.

Parks are a plus for everybody.