It’s not just rising waters that led to an earlier decision to close Bridgeport City Park. Reports of at least one tree snapping are another issue that the current weather created at the heavily used city venue.

 

“A (City) Parks maintenance foreman called me and let us know about the tree,” said Bridgeport Parks and Recreation Director Don Burton.

 

The tree in question is just beyond the driving bridge that leads you into City Park. It appears to have snapped off at the base and is laying completely across Simpson Creek. Roughly 50 yards down the creek, what appears to be another large tree – or perhaps a large section of the tree that fell near the driving bridge – is also across the waterway.

 

“We’re concerned the damage the tree could potentially cause from water backing up on it and we’re also concerned about the possibility that it may break loose and wash down stream,” said Burton.

 

If the tree would break loose and wash down stream it would likely damage the walking bridge between City Park and Wayne Jamison Field. Waters, at 2 p.m., were roughly a foot under that span, which means a major piece of debris would make impact.

 

“I had a discussion with City Engineer Tom Brown and it’s not worth risking anyone’s life to pull the tree out of what is becoming a rapidly rising creek,” said Burton. “The rising waters and risks for other trees falling around the creek or elsewhere is the reason City Park is closed to the public. We have to put safety first.

 

Read details about the flood warning in effect for the area, weather-related cancelations and view photos of local rising waters HERE.