NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) -The 11-acre Connecticut River Greenway Riverfront Park in Northampton is usually a pleasant public space. But complaints of heavy litter, prohibited fires and loud music have dampened the serenity of the area.
“Litter is everywhere,” said Louis Spiro of Hatfield.
The multi-use park offers water activities such as canoeing, kayaking and rowing, as well as access to a public beach and walking and cycling trails. It also offers a vantage point for watching birds and wildlife.
The park’s natural beauty is hampered by human neglect and local residents are fed up.
Louis added: “People don’t take rubbish bags or have a picnic here at night and leave things.”
Gary Wickland of Ludlow told 22News, “You know, we want to take care of our natural environment, of course. If we keep it clean, they’ll let us keep coming.”
Park Rules: No fires, alcohol or motorized boats. There is also a garbage policy, which seems to have been ignored. Some believe there is a simple solution.
“Maybe they can put out a garbage can and have someone empty it,” Louis continued.
Northampton police planned to increase their presence in the park throughout the weekend in hopes of preventing further disruption to the area.