PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Philadelphia police and the Parks and Recreation Department are cracking down on illegal swim parties at Devil’s Pool in the Wissahickon in response to an online petition that capped years of complaints about the area.
The scenic Wissahickon Creek watershed sits in a valley between Roxborough and Chestnut Hill. It’s one of the city’s most heavily used parks, and one of its most popular spots is an outcropping above a deep spot in the creek known as Devil’s Pool.
Roxborough resident Jennifer Cass said what should be a sanctuary for all residents has become a trash-filled site for unauthorized parties. In a Change.org petition, she — and more than 800 others so far — demand that the city enforce laws against swimming, barbecuing, littering and noise.
Parks and Rec Commissioner Sue Slawson has devised a plan to do just that.
“We are combining education, enforcement and visible patrols to reduce this illegal activity.”
She said beginning this weekend, police will be in parking lots and at trailheads, and rangers will increase patrols. It follows the April drowning death of a man while swimming in Devil’s Pool. Police spokesman Eric Gripp said the city is trying to prevent another tragedy.
They will be issuing fines and citations — $300 for swimming or open flames, $100 for noise, and $50 per item for littering. There will also be more signs and visitor education.
“We’re not trying to ruin anyone’s good time. We’re just trying to make sure everyone goes home alive," Gripp said.
