The Seattle Parks and Recreation Department will not open the spray park at Ballard Commons Park this summer according to the Seattle Times and the My Ballard blog. The reason? Health and safety concerns related to tent encampments there.

“Because of health and safety concerns of Seattle/King County Public Health and our own Safety Office regarding ongoing encampments and other activities at Ballard Commons Park, we regretfully decided not to operate the spraypark there this summer,” a spokesperson from Seattle Parks told My Ballard.

This closure is yet another example of why Seattle must do better to address tent encampments throughout the city. During record breaking heat waves and throughout the summer, all residents must have access to these parks.

If the park is unsafe for kids and families, it is not a safe place for anyone to live. It is past time for the city to act to make sure parks are available, safe and open for all.