Prospect Park still closed; don’t go jogging or leading your own cleanup

The sun is shining, it’s a beautiful, mild, crisp fall day, and we know you are itching to get back to your normal routine including running, riding, dog walking, and generally enjoying the outdoors in Prospect Park. But by official decree of the NYC Parks Department, all NYC parks, playgrounds, beaches, and recreation centers remain closed until further notice due to hazardous conditions. Councilman for the 39th District Brad Lander’s office reiterated that the park is still unsafe and you should stay out of the parks. 

How long the park will be “closed” is unknown. According to the Prospect Park Alliance (PPA), the damage is widespread and severe. “Hundreds of trees have been destroyed or severely damaged, paths and roads are blocked, light poles, signs and fencing have been knocked over, and Prospect Park Lake was blown over its banks on the southeast side.” As soon as the damage is fully assessed and the parks are officially reopened, volunteers will be needed to help with the cleanup. We will let you know as soon as we hear about any opportunities to volunteer or otherwise help with cleanup.

In the meantime, PPA is holding a Walk-a-Thon to raise money for storm damage repairs this coming Saturday, Nov. 3rd. You can help now by  signing up to run or walk, encouraging your friends and neighbors who love and use Prospect Park to do the same, and/or sponsoring someone else who is running or walking. Or you can make a general donation to the Hurricane Sandy cleanup fund (already nearing $17,000). Sign up begins at 8am at the 15th Street PPW entrance.

Seriously folks, we’ve been hearing that people are going about their business as usual in the park. This is very very dangerous. Please be smart and safe until the Parks Dept. determines you are no longer at risk from the many hazardous conditions caused by Hurricane Sandy.

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