Vallejo Construction Project Sparks Protest Over Burial Grounds
VALLEJO (CBS SF) - A Native American group in Vallejo is opposing the potential construction of a parking lot on their ancient burial site that could begin later this month.
Glen Cove Waterfront Park, a 15-acre stretch of land and water in the southern part of Vallejo, is slated to have its natural trails enhanced and receive a new parking lot sometime this year, according to the Greater Vallejo Recreation District.
But the area, which features a protected shoreline and groves of eucalyptus trees, is also the final resting place of many Native Americans dating back more than 3,500 years, according to Wounded Knee, a Vallejo resident and Native American opposing the park's renovation.
KCBS' Dave Padilla Reports:
"They have built swimming pools and condominiums, and now they want to build a parking lot," Knee said. "We think enough is enough."
GVRD's master plan includes building a parking lot would service 15 cars, according to its website, www.gvrd.org. In addition, crews would construct a single restroom for the use of visitors who don't live near the site.
The organization also plans to provide a small number of picnic tables and benches, mostly along the shoreline.
A GVRD spokesperson was not immediately available to comment on the potential bulldozing.
Knee said he heard rumors that a local contractor may begin bulldozing as soon as Friday, so protesters planned a news conference and rally Wednesday afternoon.
"Everyone has the right to a final resting place," Bay Area resident and Ohlone member Corrina Gould said in a statement. "Our ancestors deserve to have a resting place on their original land without the threat of being removed for the sake of a park."
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