North Kildonan residents have safety concerns about a cul-de-sac beside a popular recreation trail in Winnipeg.
The problem cul-de-sac is along Springfield Road, which is connected to the Chief Peguis Trail.
Long-time North Kildonan resident Merrill Clark took CTV News on a tour Thursday.
A bong, beer cans and other suspicious items were found. Earlier this week, Clark picked up a needle while out on her walk.
Clark believes the drug and sex trade has moved into her neighbourhood. She said people park in the cul-de-sac and don't to access the trail
“They are performing acts in their vehicles in broad daylight,” Clark said.
North Kildonan Community Watch is also concerned. The volunteer-run group now has more people patrolling the area.
"These trails are frequented by families, kids all the time. It's a beautiful area and we want to take advantage of it, and what's going on here is preventing people from feeling safe,” Clark said.
Winnipeg police said Thursday now that a problem has been identified, officers will assess the situation, and the Community Support Unit will handle concerns.
It's not the first time this street has required police to step in. Two years ago, officers received complaints from area residents about sex trade workers.
Clark wants removable barriers installed to help keep vehicles out, while still allowing work crews from the city or hydro to drive in and out of the cul-de-sac.
Area councillor Jeff Browaty said the city needs the loop open to allow people to get to nearby businesses.
Browaty said Thursday he has met with police about the problems.
“I think at this point, we are going to ask them to step it up even further," Browaty said.
“I know police in the past have had video surveillance. If it's an ongoing issue, perhaps video surveillance as well,” he added.
Clark said changes to improve the neighbourhood can't come fast enough. She walks in the area almost every day, and wants everyone to safely enjoy the outdoors.
