A development decision by St. Mary's Parish to build a new rectory in a green space known to parishoners as Mary Park has stirred some local protest.

Mary Park is located at the northeast corner of Longcommon and Herrick roads in Riverside. According to plans a two-story, 4,500-square-foot residence has been approved by the village.

Some parishoners are opposed to the construction of the rectory since it would be in the center of the formerly open green space. Some of those parishoners have formed a website to gain support their cause (www.savemarypark.blogspot.com).

While the administrators of the “Save St. Mary Park” blog officially had no comment, the website states, “We are concerned that the new plan would have a significant adverse impact on St. Mary Park, by compromising the integrity of the park's green space.”

The initial plan for the construction would not have impacted Mary Park. However, because of an easement on the property to the north of the space, the construction could not proceed without the consent of the property owner. Plans changed to move the building site to the center of the green space.

A facebook group has also been started in support of the cause. The name of the group is called “Save Mary Park.”

“We think all present and future students should have the same opportunities to have these memories. However Mary Park is not just for St. Mary’s students. Since Riverside is a small town, it is for the whole community to enjoy,” wrote the administrator of the group and former St. Mary’s student Hannah Cronin.

There are plans by the online group to hold a function protesting the new construction plans.  “Pack the Park” is going to be held on June 6 at 5:15. It is the wish of the group that only children attend.

--Submitted by Alex Krug, Opinion Manager