Re: ”Park safety must be top priority” (letter, 6-2).
I agree with the letter writer that safety along Five Mile Drive and on the trails can be problematic.
I’ve met people with unleashed dogs on the trails. One woman’s young dog ran ahead of her and jumped on me. I also met a man coming towards me with two unleashed Dobermans. When I asked him to hold the dogs, he just laughed and said, “They won’t hurt you.” Some people exercise their dogs by letting the dogs run alongside the car.
I’ve seen cars and bikers speeding along the road and tailgating other drivers. Some drivers pull off the road to let others pass. Some drivers stop on the road to watch and take pictures of raccoons, causing traffic to back up.
People walking in groups sometimes spill onto the road instead of staying on the bike lane.
It’s up to the individual to employ safe practices when using the park. Even with an occasional police presence, safety can’t be guaranteed. You can’t legislate against stupidity.
