Residents urge removal of chain blocking Woodland Park entrance, cite ADA concerns

Several residents used the public‑comment period Sept. 8 to press the council to remove a chain that blocks the entrance to Woodland Park. Sam Rush told the council, "Take this chain down immediately, Mr. Easterling," and accused the governing body of allowing discriminatory barriers that prevent constituents with mobility impairments from accessing the park.

Matthew Mayo cited Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act and asked when the city would remove the chain and provide an ADA‑compliant entrance, saying the chain prevents him and family members from safely entering the park. Other residents, including Jory Lyons and Andrew Brown, described local history and offered to help remove the chain or to contribute toward repairs if cost is the barrier. Speakers said weekly requests to city staff and council had not produced a timely remedy; they asked for immediate action or a clear timeline for remediation.

Council did not announce a timeline at the meeting; the public comment was entered into the record for follow up by city staff. Residents said they will continue to raise the issue at upcoming meetings until the entrance is made accessible.