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Safer sledding in Syracuse parks
Posted: 01.12.2009 at 5:07 PM
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After this weekends accident at the Westcott Reservoir where 12 year old Taylor Denson slid head first into a parked car, several people are wondering what can be done.
The Westcott Reservoir is owned by the Water Authority and is clearly marked to say no sledding. But, on any given snowy day, you can find kids and parents out playing in the snow.
City officials know that when winter comes to Central New York, many people head outdoors to enjoy the snow. They, also, know that the rolling hills of the Syracuse area are a big draw for winter lovers. However, the city has an ordnance that says sledding is not allowed in public parks. The main reason is liability. They, also, know that many people don’t follow that rule.
Several ideas have come to the city councils attention regarding this issue. One is to put a fence up around the hills people are sledding at. Another would be to have police enforce the rule more, but officials know this isn’t the best option. They need police officers out protecting people from those looking to cause harm or do wrong.
The city council will meet at a later date to discuss what could be done when it comes to stopping sledders or finding a better way to keep them safe.