Closure of City Park Angers Soccer Players

Bell Gardens has angered area soccer fans by fencing off portions of the city’s largest park during renovations and discussions on how to balance demands on its fields.

City officials say they must plant new grass at John Anson Ford Park, home to several children and adult leagues based in Bell Gardens. But they acknowledge that closing the park’s soccer fields on Friday also bought them time to figure out how to deal with problems at the park.

Councilwoman Maria Chacon said alcohol consumption during games is a major concern. Also at issue is crowding, she said, because many neighboring cities do not permit soccer in municipal parks, which forces players into Bell Gardens.

Meanwhile, soccer coaches, parents and players have demonstrated twice since the closure, including a 100-person protest at the park Sunday. They want the fields kept open for anyone who signs up to play.