Andy, I am sure that everyone appreciates the offer, and signs can certainly help, but whomever is consistently leaving the gates open (it is being reported on a daily basis) will probably not change their behavior much because of a sign.

I think the only solution is a padlock, since that is what is used on other city properties to avoid unauthorized people opening things. Friends of Wooster Square can provide a lock, but we would need to know how to coordinate with the Parks people to give them a key (or if they would be willing to use a combination).

Anyone in Parks available to respond?
Robert Musco, Friends of Wooster Square

Rfm, just to clarify, is this an access gate, and not the main gate?

That's right, it is the double gate that is there for vehicle access. What happens is that if users enter with their dogs from Chapel Street, they won't see that that gate is open until they are in the park. When I find out who to speak to in Parks, I'll follow up.

I've seen three different people with bikes opening the gate and not closing it properly. You're not even supposed to be in there w/o a dog, so it's not like the rules are something they care a lot about in the first place. The sign is a good idea but I don't think it addresses the real issue. One that also said "NO BIKES" or "MAINTENANCE USE ONLY" would be better if you still wanted to put one up.

Someone put a carabiner on a lanyard up on this gate, but that was left unclipped, so it didn't help keep the gate closed.

Yes, I repaired the gate, added protection to keep the dirt from filling the hole where the drop bolt falls, and added the carabiner. Clearly a lock is needed. I will try to talk to Parks about the logistics.

I am working with the Parks Department about the best solution. I will post back tomorrow to give an update. I will leave this open for the moment until we have resolved the issue. Thanks to everyone for reporting it!
RFM at
Friends of Wooster Square

Mr. Dixon and Christie Hass at the Parks Department have been very helpful, and are going to arrange for the gate to have a lock on it soon. Thanks Parks!
RFM at
Friends of Wooster Square

Great response from the Parks Department. The technician put on a lock, and made an adjustment so that the bolt is easier to throw. Thanks again!
RFM at
Friends of Wooster Square