CAROLINA BEACH — The Island Greenway in Carolina Beach, which finally opened after multiple delays, is now facing criticism from some residents for the lack of restricted operating hours.
In fact, one resident felt so strongly she contacted the town clerk, asking for each member of the Town Council to call her personally.
According to a town email to council, “She stated that the Greenway was approved based on the conditions that it would be open from dawn to dusk. She said that it is open all hours and it is not safe. She added that there is an alligator back there and ‘someone is going to get eaten.’ She also stated that officers are not patrolling the path as promised by staff and Council. She concluded by saying that she will be keeping a list of who takes that time to call her back and requested that I deliver this exact message to each of you.”
There have been some photos circulating on social media showing an alligator sunbathing on the banks of a pond, supposedly in Carolina Beach, but there have been no attacks — or even signs of aggression reported. Also, an 8-foot fence acts as a barrier along the entirety of the greenway.
Mayor of Carolina Beach Joe Benson said it is not likely that the town will enforce hours for the trail.
“Even if I wanted to I’m not sure we could enforce that [closing hours], given all other citizen concerns about enforcement (e.g. crosswalks, rolling stops at stop signs etc). There are many places to access the Island Greenway beside at the trailheads. The Bike and Pedestrian Committee recommends that we don’t install lighting right away, that we give it time. I agree with that. Doing so would probably limit its use when done,” Benson said.
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