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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.<\/p>\n
“Litter is everywhere,” said Louis Spiro of Hatfield.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The park’s natural beauty is hampered by human neglect and local residents are fed up.<\/p>\n
Louis added: “People don’t take rubbish bags or have a picnic here at night and leave things.”<\/p>\n
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.”<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
“Maybe they can put out a garbage can and have someone empty it,” Louis continued.<\/p>\n
Northampton police planned to increase their presence in the park throughout the weekend in hopes of preventing further disruption to the area.<\/p>\n