Battle Over Booze In Wash Park Heats Up

DENVER (CBS4)- A battle over booze at the popular Washington Park in Denver is heating up. Dozens of people gathered to voice their concerns both against and for the proposed ban on alcohol at Wash Park.

Some wonder if a ban at Wash Park could set the tone for other parks in the city. Denver City Councilman Chris Nevitt and residents who live near the park believe it's popularity has become its downfall.

"It's almost become like a gigantic frat house party and things are out of control," said Nevitt.

Nevitt lives in the district and said the problems are a sobering reality. His proposal would ban the now-allowed consumption of 3.2 percent beer. Nevitt said that's a rule most park goers ignore by bringing full-strength alcohol of any kind.

"Then when these people leave the park they pee in people's yards and defecate in alleys and sideswipe cars as they weave their way home," said Nevitt.

Residents and park goers packed Wednesday evening's meeting organized by Denver Parks and Recreation, bringing both sides of the debate to the table.

"People are drinking everywhere, bad language, beer cans, trash and glass everywhere," said 12-year-old Jack who lives near Wash Park. "Since it's not a place for kids there are no kids."

Those against the proposed ban said there are other solutions and overcrowding is the real issue.

"It reminds me of the people who moved next to Stapleton and then got angry because the planes were landing," said one resident and park-goer.

"I think we need to listen to the people who are actually using the park," said another.

Denver Parks and Recreation said there is a big question of what impact a ban will have on other parks where 3.2 beer will still be allowed. The parks department will meet with its advisory board on Thursday to decide if a short-term ban of up to 180 days is in order to see how the issue develops.