ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1997, Roanoke Times
DATE: Saturday, April 12, 1997 TAG: 9704140129
SECTION: EDITORIAL PAGE: A-7 EDITION: METRO
The push to build an attraction on Mill Mountain fails to recognize that the mountain itself, plain and simple, is the attraction.
RALPH SMITH, whose mansion sits high on Mill Mountain, says he wants a restaurant atop the mountain so everyone can dine and enjoy the view, just as he does every day.
There is no reason to doubt his sincerity. A restaurant on Mill Mountain wouldn't benefit him personally; if anything, it might detract from the value of his own property.
Further, Smith says a restaurant not only would be a pleasant amenity for residents of the Roanoke Valley, but it - or maybe a cliffside visitors' center - would be a nice convenience for tourists.
The valley does want to increase tourism, and there is truth in what he says.
But it misses the point.
Opposition to putting more man-made features on the public's Mill Mountain park springs from a close identification with and deep attachment to the mountain - just as it is.
Well-intentioned as is Smith's desire for all valley residents to be able to enjoy the view, the fact of the matter is that a whole lot of people are already enjoying it, thank you very much. Just as it is.
They do not consist only of the hikers and bikers whom Smith assumes are the sole human beings who want to keep the mountain's natural face as intact as possible.
Sedentary types drive right on up to the Mill Mountain overlook, and take great pleasure from the view. They picnic, stroll through the wildflower garden, take the kids through the zoo. Imbuing all of these gentle pleasures is the peace that comes from the natural surroundings.
Just as important as the view from the mountain is the view of the mountain. Roanokers not so fortunate as to live on Mill Mountain enjoy it nevertheless from the valley floor. They mark the change of seasons as greens, oranges, yellows and browns spread across the landscape. They note, if only subconsciously, the familiar contour of the ridgeline and the kitschy star, comfortable landmarks through a day's journeys.
The mountain has hardly been left "to the deer and the turkeys" - but many people feel joy in knowing that at least there's some small refuge for wildlife amid all man's development.
A tranquil patch of nature in the middle of a small city doesn't produce a lot of revenue directly. But it does feed the soul. Preserving it as a star attraction in a greenways system is a gift Roanokers can give to themselves, and to visitors.
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