Hours cut at Hanson Pines basketball court, playground due to public safety issues

The decision to alter the hours is said to be a joint decision by both Rochester Police and Rochester Rec. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - The City of Rochester has abruptly curtailed the hours of operation at the Hanson Pines basketball court and playground due to recent unspecified incidents that threatened public safety, city officials said today in a statement.

In a joint release from Rochester Rec and Rochester Police, it was announced that the basketball court and playground will be closed daily from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. In addition, court lights will be turned off at 8 p.m. each night and the police presence in the area will be increased..

Existing posted playground rules remain in effect, including age restrictions (5-12 years for play equipment) and "no smoking or vaping, and no inappropriate language, alcohol, or loitering," according to the release.

The Recreation Department has indicated they will present an updated set of basketball court rules for approval at an upcoming Recreation & Arena Commission meeting.

For questions or concerns, contact the Recreation Department at (603) 332-4120 or visit rec.rochesternh.gov for more information.

Rochester Police were not immediately available to comment on the seriousness of the incidents or the scope of the problem.

The Rochester Voice will be updating this story.