The San Diego City Council took action Monday after seniors complained about illegal activity at a public park in their City Heights neighborhood. The nine-member council voted unanimously in favor of a curfew at the City Heights Square Mini Park.
Tenants and management at a neighboring affordable facility for seniors said the park is a hot spot for drugs and violence, and claim the problems are bleeding over into the residential building.
The change gives police officers the ability to cite or arrest those who are in the area during the 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew.
Community groups spent months pushing for the partial closure, including Price Charities and Price Philanthropies Foundation. The charity said in a letter it has witnessed public safety concerns at the park since 2014.
"These activities include gang activity, drug dealing, drug use, prostitution, graffiti and litter related to these damaging activities," the November letter said.
However, not all residents interviewed by KPBS agreed the park attracted people who caused problems. One woman who did not want to be identified previously said the small courtyard was frequented by individuals who are homeless and just looking for a place to go.
Council members also approved curfews at four locations in the North Park area. Advocates said crime is also a problem at those parks.
A park and recreation board gave preliminary approval for the curfews late last month.
