Salem city council members were upset Monday night to learn there had already been vandalism to the new Salem Lions Addy and Friends Inclusive Playground in Bryan Memorial Park.
Public Works Director Annette Brushwitz said she has already order a replacement part to fix some of the damage.
“I don’t know how to outreach to people the importance of just taking care of the wonderful thing we just put in place. One of the gates is already broken. And it’s my understanding that kids are swinging and riding on the gate. I don’t know the size and haven’t witnessed it myself, but it’s just heartbreaking.”
Brushwitz is working with Security Alarm to install cameras that hopefully can be hooked to the Police Department for them to watch activity at the inclusive playground.
Brushwitz has also ordered additional signage to deal with some of the other problems that have surfaced. They include prohibiting food and drink, no dogs in the fenced area of the park, and no kids to be left unattended.
The inclusive playground opened just over a week ago.
