THE MEMBERS of the Warwick Land Trust are very concerned about the future of Rocky Point. However, we also see the greatest opportunity in almost 50 years for preserving and using waterfront open space in Rhode Island.

Overlooking Narragansett Bay, Rocky Point Amusement Park was the true definition of a jewel in the rough. Almost every Rhode Islander has pleasant memories of the place. Closed for over a decade and jilted by several developers, Rocky Point and its handler, the Small Business Administration (SBA), pine for a developer that would take her to the dance. But Rhode Islanders still have the opportunity to capitalize on a great public-space opportunity.

The City of Warwick and state and federal agencies have taken the first step by acquiring 41 acres for a waterfront walking trail and parking for about 20 or so cars. Even this parcel remains vulnerable, and could be lost forever, since its government funding will soon expire. We remain committed to the acquisition of the 41 acres and want to complement it with even more open space.

The only proposals for the former Rocky Point site so far are for large residential developments that forever remove the possibility of Rocky Point’s reviving its 100-plus-year tradition as the second-oldest recreational park in the country. Fences would go up around expensive homes, and Rocky Point could soon be talked about in sad tones as a place where fun was once king but became an opportunity lost. We think that the land could be put to a better use that includes both public and private interests.

During our work, we learned that most Rhode Islanders would like to see Rocky Point as the West Bay counterpart to Colt State Park on the East Bay. Rocky Point has the potential to provide unique access to the citizens of Rhode Island, with a ferry landing that could connect Warwick and Newport. The pier once used for ferries is still there, and so too is deep water. The idea of creating a beautiful waterfront location that draws people by ferryboat can’t help but conjure up memories of the old Rocky Point, where steamers arrived with passengers out to enjoy a day of rest and fun. Perhaps it could include a small shopping village, benefiting all nearby residents.

Rocky Point thus presents a dramatic, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It cries out for state and federal politicians to show the kind of leadership and vision displayed by Gov. John Chafee when he made Colt State Park a reality in 1965. Colt State Park was not easy. It took over 30 years, during which governors and the legislature were at odds over financing it.

Rhode Island’s economy was not booming then, but one of its greatest parks was born during hard times because the people’s representatives did what they were elected to do: make tough decisions for the future success of the state. The state’s budget may seem tight now, but government was created to help the people make things happen. Look at the Providence renaissance and how hard the state worked at that. Don’t other areas of Rhode Island deserve a similar treatment?

Rhode Island’s most critical asset, Narragansett Bay, must be accessible to all people. Our forefathers put its protection in the Rhode Island Constitution because they saw its importance in the life of the state. Losing a waterfront park with a public beach at Rocky Point would be a black spot on our history that could not be undone. Tourism is the state’s leading industry, and we should not lose such a major tourism opportunity for our state.

By overwhelming margins, Rhode Island citizens have endorsed bonds for acquiring and preserving open space. Rocky Point is the most obvious opportunity for preserving waterfront space we will see in our lifetimes. We strongly believe that Rocky Point can become an asset for everyone if citizens speak loudly enough to our leaders. Who hasn’t lost out on an opportunity in life and sadly looked back, with the wisdom of hindsight, realizing how special that opportunity was, and how one can never revisit the past?

We are asking that the City of Warwick and the governor’s office create a blue-ribbon committee to discuss alternatives for Rocky Point. The park represents many opportunities in addition to open space, including a commercial area for local residents, tourism and ferry transportation, to name a few. This committee could include representatives from the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority, the Department of Environmental Management, the City of Warwick, the Department of Transportation and private entities. Together its members could determine a use for the land that benefits all. The Warwick Land Trust will do everything it can to help this committee and help make this West Bay jewel shine brightly.

Time is of the essence. An issue this important must be addressed before it becomes even more complex. We ask that this committee be formed very quickly and actions quickly follow.

What say you, Rhode Island? Please tell your elected officials how you feel on this matter and contact us for more information ( LandTrust@WarwickRI.gov). Please indicate in your e-mail subject line whether you want information or want to participate and help us.

Christopher A. D’Ovidio, a lawyer, is chairman of the Warwick Land Trust.