Bad Behavior Prompts Closure Of Glastonbury Park: Officials

GLASTONBURY, CT — The Cotton Hollow Preserve is closed until further notice due to "safety concerns," Glastonbury officials said.

Grange Pool will remain open with its standard operating hours and regulations, officials said.

"The town will be monitoring the Cotton Hollow area to ensure compliance with the closure," Glastonbury Town Manager Jonathan Luiz said.

Luiz said municipal staff members have witnessed marijuana smoking and alcohol consumption, both in the parking lot and in and along Roaring Brook. In addition, visitors have been "cliff jumping" and lighting fires, and even grilling on the fires, he said.

Trash has also been discarded on the park, he said.

Police have also encountered unregistered and uninsured vehicles, and over the weekend, three cars fled after Glastonbury police officers attempted to pull them over and nearly hit an officer, he said. The cars also nearly hit civilians making their way to the recreation area, Luiz said.

"The closure of the Cotton Hollow Preserve will give the town time to pick up trash, perform trail maintenance, and develop public safety enhancements," he said.