RICHLAND, Wash. – Parks across Richland will soon begin closing at 10 p.m. instead of 11 p.m. as part of new public safety measures.
The decision aims to curb vandalism and crimes occurring after dark, prompted by the financial burden of tens of thousands of dollars in damages each year.
Chris Waite, the Parks and Public Facilities Director for the City of Richland, highlighted the issues faced at Claybell Park.
“Claybell Park was a park that we were having what we would consider major incidents of vandalism…like the fixtures completely smashed inside a restroom facility. That was happening at least twice a month…major incidents. And then we were having almost daily issues with graffiti, or other smaller acts of vandalism,” Waite said.
While there will be a few exceptions to the new closing times, these regulations will take effect on December 17.
