HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/17/2020 Item 11, Schwind To: SLO City Council:
From: Sara von Schwind of San Luis Obispo
Re: Support of item #11 on your 11/17/2020 agenda re winter access of Cerro San Luis
Date: 11/13/2020
Thank you for considering extending the pilot program for hiking after sunset until
8:30 PM during the winter months at the Cerro San Luis trailhead. I fully support the staff
recommendation to continue winter access of Cerro San Luis for one more season, Item #11
on your November 17, 2020 SLO City Council Agenda.
When considering the mental health of residents in the San Luis Obispo area, there are very
few opportunities to find active stress-relieving activities during the winter months. Those
responsible for helping the community with mental health issues are bracing for a continued
surge of inental health issues due to the stressful environment of the past year. One of the
suggestions from mental health experts is to connect with nature. Hiking is an excellent and
meaningful way to connect with our natural world and provides an opportunity for exercise
and mental wellbeing. From past discussions about this topic it was suggested to utilize the
trail during the daylight hours of the winter months; but this is not possible for those who work,
like myself, during the day and do not have the flexibility to change our work schedules. I
think it is important that the local government consider equity in the discussion and not just
equality. Yes, if we provide equality everyone is provided access during the normal working
hours but if we really consider equity, then hours outside of the normal workday can be
provided to allow more constituents to have the ability to de-stress and provide for a healthy
lifestyle by having access to nature and trails.
During past discussions it was also suggested to obtain your physical activity by utilizing the
gym instead of hiking. Even this avenue is not available during this time of COVID-19 if you
are following the CDC guidelines. Extending the hours also allows for less congestion on the
trails and ability to maintain social distancing.
Your approval of this pilot program and hopefully future access to Cerro San Luis in the
evening hours during winter months is so appreciated and really signifies one of the main
reasons I chose to work and live here on the Central Coast.
Thank you,
Sara von Schwind
San Luis Obispo