Temporary Signage Indicating Park Rules

The voice of the community is being heard. The residents of Philadelphia in solidarity, speaking in one united voice, advocating for change to save and preserve something that is precious to all of us - are making a difference.

Yesterday, 14 August, we had a minor victory.  With only 800 signatures at that time and in less than a week, temporary signage indicating park rules were present and clearly visible in key areas along Forbidden Drive.   There was law enforcement present, requesting that individuals engaging in behavior contrary to the rules, step out of the water.  While this was met with some resistance and defiance, especially at Devil's Pool, there were also those who did comply as they had been unaware that swimming was prohibited. 

The Department of Parks & Recreation is actively structuring a plan to address the issues in our petition for the remainder of this year and going forward into next year. Please be patient as this will take some time as it involves budget revisions and personnel and labour allocations.  It also requires a coordinated effort between two Police Precincts, as parts of Forbidden Drive is under the jurisdiction of the 5th, and the Cresheim Creek area where Devil's Pool is located, is under the jurisdiction of the 14th. 
While our goal is permanent signage, we should rejoice that temporary signage has been placed throughout the park, providing a visible anchor by which the law and park rules may be enforced. 

KYW News Radio covered this story, yesterday also, which has raised awareness to our cause to Save The Wissahickon Creek from further destruction.  In less than a decade of these unauthorized and unlawful swim parties, our Creek has been nearly destroyed by massive amounts of garbage and pollution.  If we do not act now, we will lose it forever. 

Today we have over 1100 signatures. We must keep going! Please continue to share and encourage others to sign the petition.