Removal of toys at Lincoln Park is illogical

Thank you for alerting readers to the city’s plan to remove the toys from Lincoln Park (“City plans to remove riding toys,” Aug. 14).

Throughout Burbank, playgrounds include structures with openings and edges anywhere from 4 to 8 feet off the ground. Logically, a fall from this height creates a far greater danger (and liability) than a tumble off a 10-inch-tall plastic toy or a poke with a plastic shovel. The ride and push toys create excellent outlets for exercise and all toys offer invaluable practice in sharing. With so much attention paid to childhood obesity and bullying in our society, why disallow opportunities to combat these serious problems early at little or no cost to the city?

All playgrounds include signs that state “play at your own risk” and “adult supervision required.” Why are these good-sense measures not applicable to use of the toys? If there are concerns about safety and maintenance, I suggest a sign be posted stating that the toys are there without the permission of the city, and request that any broken or inoperable ones be removed immediately.

Parents, caregivers and other concerned residents who want to speak out against this arbitrary and illogical decision can send an email to citycouncil@burbankca.gov to send their message to the mayor, vice-mayor and council members simultaneously. Additionally, public comments are accepted at city council meetings. The next meeting will be held Tuesday, Aug. 20 (the night before the toys are set to be removed) at 6 p.m. on the 2nd floor of City Hall, 275 E. Olive Ave. Without immediate action, the park will be changed forever for the worse.

Kat Olson
Burbank