The long-ignored sinkhole in Forest Park, which for two years has taken up the sidewalk where pedestrians enter the park from Woodhaven Boulevard, has at last seen some action by the Parks Department.
When The Courier first broke the story last month, the only protection for passersby were metal barricades and caution tape, reducing the size of the walkway and making it a hazard for pedestrians.
This week, a large portion of the sidewalk around the gaping hole has been fenced in by the Parks Department, limiting the risk of injury for parkgoers.
Now, pedestrians must walk across the street when they enter or leave the park, reducing the risk of injury.
The sinkhole was most likely caused by erosion and storm water runoff, according to a Parks Department official, and the agency mobilized a contractor to fix it.
“We have designed a solution, which will include clearing and upgrading existing drainage structures, filling the sinkhole, reconstructing the sidewalk and stabilizing the adjacent slope,” the official said. “A contractor has already begun work.”
Ed Wendell, president of Project Woodhaven and a frequent visitor to Forest Park, said he was glad initial steps have been taken but wants to see the repairs completed swiftly.
“I’m glad the first step has been taken and they have closed the sidewalk to take the immediate danger out of the way,” Wendell said. “Now, let’s get it fixed.”
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