Neighbors and Police Look to Make it a Safe Park Ave Fest
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"People always tell me that Park Ave is the place to see and be seen."
More than 400 vendors, 35 bands and 300 artists attract a unique crowd to Park Avenue every year.
"There's a real funky, chic attitude amongst the people that live here, and those that come to visit," said Jeffrey Springut, festival producer.
Unlike other festivals, Park Ave Fest brings the party right to the middle of a residential neighborhood.
"Sometimes people don't know what side of the street to park on. It makes it very difficult for emergency vehicles to get through if you've parked on both sides," said Bruce Trombley, Park Ave Revitalization Committee.
Years ago, after the city was forced to issue an exorbitant amount of parking tickets, the Park Ave Revitalization Commmittee starting posting its own signs around the neighborhood.
But most residents say after a 10 p.m. noise ordinance was issued and police presence was increased...
“The number of crazy parties has reduced dramatically," said Trombley.
Not only partying, but trespassing, and vandalism have also greatly decreased.
“They pay attention to the signs. We’ve had no problems the last couple of years," said Lois Coriddi, Barrington Street resident.
Sgt. Justin Collins of the Rochester Police Department says patrols will continue to be out in full force this year.
“They’ll be patrols, officers assigned specifically to the festival and they’ll be house party details, just trying to make sure people are celebrating responsibly and make sure order is kept throughout the neighborhood,” Collins said.
For some residents the culture and enjoyment Park Ave Fest brings to the area, far outweigh their concerns.
“It’s two days out of the year, if you don’t like it you probably should get out of town. There’s noise but its happy noise," Coriddi said.