Tot Lot on Cortelyou Rd. Sees Improved Security

Local authorities are beginning to give a local playground a once-over in the safety department, taking steps to improve the conditions of the children's play area. 

Until further notice, the Lt. Federico Narvaez Tot Lot on the corner of Argyle and Cortelyou Roads will be opened and closed by the Parks Department. Authorities will open the park around 8 a.m. and close the park around 9 p.m. 

To decide on a permanent solution, concerned parents, the Parks Borough Commissioner's Office, Community Board 14, a representative from Assemblywoman Jacobs' office and the 70th Precinct will meet in approximately two weeks.

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At the meeting, concerned parents can volunteer to permanently monitor and take responsibility for opening and closing the park. Ditmas Park resident Christina, , and asked that she only be referred to by her first name, noted that more than the 11 volunteers already committed will be needed to successfully take charge of the tot lot. 

Christina initially became concerned with the playground's conditions earlier this month when she noticed groups of men gathering in the park after dark. 

"I started noticing there was consistently a group of younger guys huddled in back of the tot lot late at night," she said. "It's not a big deal, it's a city, and I'm not sure of details of park closing. But it really became a concern when my husband found a couple of dime bags at the exact same bench we see these guys hanging out every night."

Residents that witness any illegal activity in the park, including trespassing, should contact the NYPD immediately.