THE BRONX, N.Y. (PIX11) — It’s not the kind of obstacle course that people want to navigate at Macombs Dam Park off East 161st Street in the Bronx.
But some visitors to the popular city park in the Bronx have been walking around holes in the track and field and bleachers that were burned in a fire.
Mikal Dim takes the train to walk the track in the Concourse neighborhood of the Bronx.
“I like to come here and clear your head. Enjoy the scenery, green and sunshine, ” he observed.
The 400-meter track wraps around a large field with turf. Both show signs of wear and tear.
In April, an early morning fire in the bleachers melted a section of aluminum seats and damaged the storage area and soccer equipment for South Bronx United.
Andrew So is the founder and executive director of the non-profit that combines soccer programs with academic, mentoring, and social services for young students and teens.
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“These are important spaces for our community and the South Bronx, one of the facility deserts that’s lacking. It needs to be functioning. What we have is extremely important,” he said.
Coaches have been storing and transporting some backup equipment as activities are held five days a week.
Neighbors have been speaking up to local leaders and the city. They’ve shared videos and hope businesses and organizations will help restore the park, which is known as one of the most heavily used athletic areas in the Parks system.
Durga Sreenivasan is an organizer who heard a friend describe conditions at the park.
“As advocates and as neighbors, you can record something and put it up and make a difference. It can move money and resources to the community and the people who need it most,” Sreenivasan said.
The parks department reports regular maintenance and patching at Macombs Dam Park. The new track and field park opened in 2009 when Yankee Stadium moved to its new facility across the street.
NYC Parks is working to secure full funding for a comprehensive reconstruction of the field.
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