Resident urges city action on speeding, ATVs and vandalism near Century Park; city pledges multi-department review

A Rock Springs resident asked the City Council on Tuesday to address speeding, vandalism and off-road vehicle use near Century Park and several nearby streets, and city officials said multiple departments will review the complaint and follow up.

David Fletcher of 2004 Fir Drive told the council he has seen cars drag-race on Evergreen Street, a vehicle crash into a ballard at a park entrance, frequent ATV and motorcycle activity on the park grounds, and recent vandalism that included smashed windows at a nearby school. "There's a big issue with the whole Evergreen Street there," Fletcher said, urging the city to consider a four-way stop, rumble strips and dust-abatement measures such as asphalt grindings.

Mayor Max Mickelson and councilors responded that engineering, operations, parks and recreation, the police department and the county sheriff will be asked to study the area and propose solutions. The mayor said staff will talk to Chief Harris Palmer and other department heads and asked Fletcher to provide contact information so staff can follow up.

Council members discussed options that could include additional stop signs, signage that the parking area closes at dusk, gating or physical bollards to prevent ATVs from entering the grass, and dust-abatement treatments. Staff noted the city's need to coordinate with the county because the parking area and park access straddle municipal and county property.

Mayor Mickelson said the city will "come up with a solution" and asked Fletcher to provide his contact information to Chief Harris Palmer for a follow-up meeting. Fletcher offered to volunteer with small tasks such as helping place signage or closing a gate when necessary.

Ending: City staff committed to an interdepartmental review and a follow-up with the resident; any specific project or spending will be reported back to the council for approval.