Don’t move the entrance to Denver’s historic Riverside Cemetery

“A grave dilemma,” Aug. 1 news story.

I am very concerned with the recent article about RTD’s decision to run the North Metro Rail Line alongside Riverside Cemetery, which would result in relocating its only entrance. At what point will Denver learn not to destroy the few remainders of our past?

In the 1960s, Denver “modernized” our Capitol Hill areas, resulting in the loss and beauty of the majority of the city’s late-1800s and turn-ofthe-century mansions. Now, again, we want to modernize, but this time we add insult to our founding pioneers by further jeopardizing the final resting place of many. For shame, Denver!

As a fourth-generation Colorado native, third-generation Denverite, and member of the Territorial Daughters of Colorado, I am appalled by this plan and its ramifications.

Wake up! Treasure and protect our history — it can’t be replaced. ●●●

Riverside Cemetery is sacred ground. Closing the main entrance may be the last nail in the coffin for what once was a quiet place. It is surrounded by junkyards, refineries, sewage treatment and now increasing train traffic.

RTD could’ve extended the overpass so people can honor loved ones and those who established Denver and Colorado. Many of them were transferred there from what is now Cheesman Park. What will keep them from being moved again?

As Denver continues to grow, we need to do better caring for one another, including those who’ve passed on. We all will someday.