Long Beach may create designated “kid zones” at local parks after reports of adults inadvertently breaking playground equipment by using equipment meant for children.
The Long Beach City Council unanimously approved the item Tuesday, Sept. 7 to ensure that playgrounds are used by their intended audience.
In these zones—which could exist at parks, playgrounds, beaches and other areas—adults would not be allowed in without accompanying a child under the age of 12.
“We’ve seen spaces designed for children vandalized and misused,” Councilmember Cindy Allen said, noting that adult use can deter parents and their children from utilizing parks and playgrounds.
Parks, Recreation and Marine Director Brent Dennis said the City has already seen half a dozen instances of playground damage from adults, which he said “do cost a considerable amount of dollars to bring back into a safe condition.” In one instance, repairs cost around $50,000.
At Junipero Park, within a matter of days of its opening, Dennis said the entire playground had to be blocked off for repairs. Council members shared a number of other examples including broken slides and damaged ziplines.
“We’ve had some unfortunate, very significant losses of playgrounds,” Dennis said. “With the best of intentions, we do want our playgrounds to be safe and welcoming for our young families and our kids to have healthy creative play areas.”
To deter adult use, parks may also increase signage explaining weight limits and the intended age range for park equipment.
“We need to protect these public investments to ensure that they are being utilized for the population that they are meant to serve,” Councilmember Al Austin said.
Staff is expected to report back on the ordinance, including the cost of signage, installation and enforcement, at a future meeting.
The next Long Beach City Council meeting will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 14. at 5 p.m. in the Civic Chambers, 411 W Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802.
