HOULTON, Maine — Town officials, along with the Riverfront Park Committee, are asking users of the park and walking trails to show them some respect in the form of following park rules.
Signs were recently erected in the park and along the trails to emphasize this philosophy. The sign states that “Riverfront Park is here for Everyone. Please be respectful of the facilities and those using them.”
In a twist on the traditional list of dos and don’ts, the committee built off the theme of “respect.” The rules for the park are as follows:
– Relax and breathe in the fresh air in the smoke-free park.
– Exercise is great – walk the trails, but no skateboards.
– Speak respectfully – no profanity.
– Put litter in its place – use available trash receptacles.
– Everyone likes music – but not too loud.
– Creativity is a gift — but not on town-owned property. No graffiti.
– Tell someone if you see a problem. Be part of the solution.
The committee worked closely with Town Manager Butch Asselin and Police Chief Joe McKenna on the signs and determining their location. The Police Department patrols the area, but cannot be there all the time.
The hope is that those who use the Park and Trails will take some ownership in this town asset and help keep it pristine. Users are alerted that the Park is monitored by camera as well as by concerned citizens.
The sign also includes the police department phone number and their tip line so any wrongdoing can be reported. McKenna states that, “The public can play a big part in making Riverfront Park and the adjoining walking trails a great place for all to enjoy. We will enforce the rules of the park and the sign serves as an initial warning.”
The park has become a favorite spot for individuals to enjoy the view, have a lunch on one of the picnic tables or read about the history on the storyboards. Many people also use the trail loop for an evening walk or a mid-day break from work. A play area will soon be finished where children can swing and ride a teeter totter and restrooms are planned for the near future. This is all to create an appealing social and recreational experience for the public.
Healthy Aroostook partnered with the town and the Riverfront Committee to provide the new signage to promote this physical activity area in the community. Healthy Aroostook is supported through funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, EMHS and the Partnership to Improve Community Health. They encourage residents and tourists to visit the park, take a walk and enjoy the beauty that is right here in Aroostook County.
“We were happy to be able to help out on this project with Houlton’s Riverfront Park and the walking trails. Healthy Aroostook wants everyone to be aware of the wonderful, free opportunities that we have in Aroostook County for people to get out and get moving,” said Dawn Roberts, community education specialist for Healthy Aroostook.
The Riverfront Park Committee was formed a number of years ago to oversee the building of the Gateway Bridge over the Meduxnekeag River. The committee has been the driving force behind the various developments at the park including the bridge, trails, steps to Highland Avenue, the picnic area, information kiosk, lighting, storyboards and the Rain Garden along with the soon to be available play area and the public restrooms.
Bob Anderson, one of the founding members of the Riverfront Committee said, “The community projects supported by local people and organizations create ‘Community Spirit’ — that something extra that makes our community a better place to live. The park, bridge and walking trails create a beautiful green space at the entrance to our historic downtown and provide a space for the recreational needs of the community. We appreciate the support of Healthy Aroostook in acquiring the new signs and look forward to working with the town of Houlton on the continuing development of Riverfront Park.”
