The Leon county Schools have made the difficult decision to close public access to high school tracks in Tallahassee following a series of incidents involving vandalism, trash, and misuse. This move comes after the district reopened the tracks at Leon High School and Chiles High School about a year ago in response to community requests for public access during morning and evening hours.
The decision to close the tracks again was driven by ongoing damage to the facilities, including an incident where an individual dragged a 45-pound weight down the track, causing significant damage. Rocky Hannathe LCS Superintendent, expressed his disappointment, stating that the damage makes it difficult to absorb the costs, as replacing a track costs more than $1 million.
Reasons Behind the Closure
The closure was prompted by various forms of misuse, including vandalism, littering, and even dogs being brought onto the fields. Hanna emphasized the need to protect the facilities, noting that the damage was not only costly but also disheartening for those who used the tracks responsibly.
In addition to physical damage, some for-profit businesses were using the tracks for commercial purposes, which was never the intent of the public access program. This misuse further contributed to the decision to close the tracks to the public.
Community Impact and Reactions
The closure has significant implications for the community, particularly for those who rely on the tracks for outdoor fitness. Jason Comforta resident from Miamihighlighted the broader problem of limited outdoor fitness options in Tallahassee. He noted that in Miami, most parks have tracks available for the community, whereas in Tallahassee, tracks are only available at local high schools.
Comfort expressed concern that losing access to the tracks would force people indoors and reduce outdoor fitness options across the city. He emphasized the importance of community responsibility, stating that even though the tracks are public, they should be respected and treated as if they were one’s own.
Parents and community members have also expressed their disappointment. Chantel Piercea mom of two kids enrolled in LCS, shared her frustration, stating that families depend on public school facilities to keep their kids active and healthy. She also pointed out that taxpayers contribute to the school system, making the closure feel like a loss for the community.
Future Implications and Alternatives
The closure affects various groups, including the Tallahassee Zoom Track Clubwhich has been using the Leon High School track for years. Quinn Brumfielda parent involved with the club, emphasized the need for athletes to practice on a track field to prepare for track meets. The club plans to use FAMU’s track facilities under an agreement, but this decision could impact their student athletes.
Social media reactions have been mixed, with some supporting the closure due to the damage and littering, while others express concern about the lack of alternative options for the community. One comment stated, “Great idea if people damage property and leave garbage they should have no access.” Another person wrote, “If you can’t keep it clean, stay away.”
The news comes just nine months after the school district announced that the tracks at the two high schools would reopen on September 20 of last year. At that time, new security cameras were installed to enforce operating hours and prevent vandalism. Despite these measures, the damage continued, leading to the current closure.
