For families in Pacific Beach, the news that the playground at Fanuel Street Park has been removed comes as a significant disappointment. After decades of use, the beloved play area was dismantled due to safety concerns, leaving a void for local children and parents who frequented the park.
Michelle Todd, a local parent, acknowledged the playground’s deteriorating condition. “They put a piece of wood with a chain and lock, and the kids were fascinated by that,” she noted, highlighting the makeshift repairs that had become a point of interest for children, albeit an unsafe one. She further illustrated the children’s playful nature, stating, “Oh, this kid loves it. A trash can, anything, he loves it. But, yeah, not the safest.” Her comments underscore the inherent risks of the aging play structure.
The city’s decision to remove the playground comes after years of wear and tear led to safety hazards. While the removal was necessary, it has left the park with limited recreational options, a situation described as “pretty pathetic” by Pacific Beach Town Council President, Charlie Nieto. For the time being, the park’s amenities are reduced to a sand lot and swings.
Nieto further elaborated on the park’s recent misfortunes, mentioning, “Two years ago, there were multiple car accidents that crashed into some of the other structures here at the park, including some cement sea turtles and these little concrete dolphins.” He also referenced the park’s unfortunate reputation, having been nicknamed ‘felony park’ due to various incidents. These factors contribute to a sense of neglect and highlight the need for park improvements.
Looking to the future, City spokesperson Benny Cartwright indicated that there is consideration to include a Fanuel Street Park renovation project in the next Mission Bay Improvement Fund. However, the approval and subsequent completion of such a project could take up to seven years. This lengthy timeline has prompted some parents to consider taking matters into their own hands.
Mike Reed, another parent, expressed a proactive sentiment, suggesting, “For us to like raise our own money, that’d be kind of dope. I’m sure an architect and a structural engineer might throw in their services for free, and away we go.” This DIY approach reflects the community’s strong desire to restore the park’s playground and their willingness to contribute to the effort.
In the interim, the removal of the playground at Fanuel Street Park serves as a stark reminder of the challenges in maintaining public spaces and the importance of community involvement. While the future of the park’s playground remains uncertain, the proactive spirit of local parents offers a glimmer of hope for revitalization and the potential return of a safe and enjoyable play area for children in Pacific Beach.
