New restrictions are in place at Gord Edgar Downie Pier and Breakwater Park Beach as City Bylaw Enforcement and Kingston Police try to control large unsanctioned partying along the pier.
According to a release by City officials, the beach will be closed to the public nightly, from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. on September 7, 2023, until the morning of September 10, 2023. This comes after the declaration of multiple Nuisance parties being declared in recent days.
“The decision to close the park follows the declaration of multiple Nuisance Parties in the University District, including one at the Pier on the evening of Sunday, September 3. Large unsanctioned gatherings in this area pose major safety risks, especially at night, necessitating the closure of the park and pier,” City officials said on Wednesday.
Throughout the nightly closures, City Bylaw Enforcement and Kingston Police say that they will continue to monitor and patrol the park and surrounding areas during this time. Active video surveillance is in place. Under Section 3 of City of Kingston By-Law Number 2009-76, it is an offense to enter or use a park where entry or use is prohibited by notice.
“Fencing and signage are being installed to prevent nighttime access to the Gord Edgar Downie Pier and the beach area at Breakwater Park. Daytime access is still available through openings in the fence.”
Over move-in day weekend, about $40,000 in fines were issued under the University District Safety Initiative.
“Last weekend’s activities have shown an unsettling trend in reckless behaviors, as well as a lack of respect toward the community and all of its members,” said Acting Chief of Kingston Police Scott Fraser.
“We’re hopeful we will not see this same behavior next weekend. Our Police Liaison Teams (PLT) will continue to engage with both students and residents in the University District. We encourage students and all community residents to engage in conversations with PLT members to ensure future weekends are peaceful, lawful, and safe for everyone.”
The University District Safety Initiative (UDSI) will be in effect until Monday, September 10, at 11:59 p.m.
