Business owners and residents complained about crime, the unhoused, and drugs
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —
Robinson Park in downtown Albuquerque now has restricted daytime hours, limiting access for five hours each day, but conflicting signage and enforcement have raised concerns.
A sign posted in September states the park is closed during specific daytime hours, while another nearby sign indicates closure from dark to dawn. City councilors Stephanie Telles and Tammy Fiebelkorn said they were unaware of the Keller administration’s decision to change the park’s hours.
“I think this is a travesty that people should have access to their neighborhood parks whenever they choose to walk their dog or play with their kids,” said Fiebelkorn.
City Councilor Joaquin Baca represents District 2 where Robinson Park is located.
Baca added, “I would, I’m more than happy to discuss the issues that they don’t deal with and they have no idea about.”
The city’s Parks and Recreation Department provided a statement explaining the adjusted schedule.
“This adjusted schedule allows parks and recreation to concentrate on maintenance, cleaning and park improvements,” the department said.
Baca offered a different perspective, saying he has received complaints from businesses and residents about issues related to the unhoused population, crime, and drug activity in the park.
“The unhoused being primarily there was a lot of arrests happening. There were some assaults,” Baca said.
During park closure hours KOAT Reporter John Rupolo observed people still at the park, raising questions about enforcement.
The Albuquerque Police Department said officers are periodically checking parks during closed hours.
Cayla Vegil , the owner of Custom Cleaners next to the park, shared her thoughts on the new policy.
“Do you think limiting daytime hours will help the situation? I think it’ll help to an extent, but I don’t think it’ll completely help the problem,” she said.
