The barricades return to block off the chess tables in Tompkins Square Park

Photos by Steven

The barricades arrived once again (late last week) around the chess tables at the entrance to Tompkins Square Park at Seventh Street and Avenue A...

The city did this back in June, with a member of the Parks Enforcement Patrol saying that this section of the Park is "problematic." Eventually, the barricades are removed ... and nothing ever really changes.

This area was blocked off several times during the past two summers. During that time, there were reader reports about drug use, stolen property and fights. 

City once again closes the area around the chess tables in Tompkins Square Park

City officials today have placed barricades around the chess tables, blocking access to this populated area at the entrance to Tompkins Square Park at Seventh Street and Avenue A. 

One member of the Parks Enforcement Patrol told EVG correspondent Steven that this section of the Park is "problematic." 

An assortment of blankets, personal belongings, and at least one Citi Bike, remain inside the barricades. 

The city has blocked off this area several times during the past two summers. 

Last summer, residents complained about the activity around the chess tables, including drug use, stolen goods and knife fights.