South Phoenix residents are frustrated with the state of their local parks.
PHOENIX — Residents say Cesar Chavez Park in south Phoenix could be a great space, but they no longer feel welcome.
Resident Gary Garski said, “I fell in love instantly because it was clean, pristine, green, and cool in the desert.”
“I’m reluctant to come with my kids just because they don’t feel safe,” Margie Sanchez said. It doesn’t feel like it. You don’t get the same vibe.”
“I feel like it’s gone downhill,” Galski said.
Garski said it hurts to see a place he once loved fall by the wayside from garbage to dead fish.
“The pavilion has become an outhouse,” says Garski. “The conditions and the smells and sights made me come here less and less.”
He is not alone either. Some say they want 12News to do something.
“There are a lot of homeless people, a lot of trash, it doesn’t feel cozy and clean,” Sanchez said.
12News has reached out to the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation and sent the following statement:
“The Parks and Recreation Department works daily to monitor and clean the city’s lakes and ponds. Parks and Recreation staff clean and scoop water daily to remove trash and other debris. Recently, monsoon winds have added to the buildup of debris, which is being removed as quickly as possible.Currently, there are no problems with fish or water quality in ponds.In addition, city ponds and lakes are protected from third-party golden algae are routinely treated by
However, residents still feel that not enough has been done.
“With a little TLC, it could be a very beautiful place,” Garski said.
“I think we can host more events when we clean up here,” Sanchez said.
And with due care, I hope the park will shine again someday.
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