If You See Something
Fayetteville Police are asking residents to report any suspicious activity to 911 immediately, as part of the Department of Homeland Security’s “If You See Something, Say Something” campaign. The department says it has not received notification of any local threats, but in light of recent events across the country and around the world, police ask citizens to be vigilant.
We can all help keep our communities safe by paying attention to our surroundings and reporting suspicious activity to local law enforcement. In cities, on farms and in the suburbs, we share everyday moments with our neighbors, colleagues, families and friends. It’s easy to take for granted the routine moments in our every day — going to work or school, the grocery store or the gas station.
“Informed, alert communities play a critical role in keeping our nation safe,” said Police Lt. David McLaurin. “If You See Something, Say Something” engages the public in protecting our homeland through awareness, building, partnerships and other outreach. To report suspicious activity, contact your local law enforcement agency. Describe specifically what you observed, including who or what you saw, when you saw it and where it occurred.
Suspicious activity is any observed behavior that could indicate terrorism or terrorism-related crime. This might include:
• Unusual items or situations: A vehicle is parked in an odd location, a package/luggage left unattended, a window/door is open that is usually closed.
• Eliciting information: A person asks questions at a level beyond curiosity about a building’s purpose, operations, security procedures and/or personnel, shift changes, etc.
• Observation/surveillance: Someone seen paying unusual attention to facilities or buildings beyond a casual or professional interest. This includes extended loitering without explanation.
Factors such as race, ethnicity or religious affiliation should not be
considered suspicious.
Cape Fear River Park
One of the items many folks are unfamiliar with on the proposed March Parks & Recreation Bond referendum is a Cape Fear River Park. It’s a $6.3 million-dollar proposal with no exact plan. The city says the goal is to make the riverfront a special place for Fayetteville. The park could include an aquarium but it is not likely to be part of the bond issue
There apparently are half a dozen conceptual ideas for developing a park somewhere on the river, near the Person Street bridge. One of the ideas is to develop it off Dunn Road, north of Person Street. Developers point out an upper middle class residential neighborhood has been built nearby. Naysayers contend the older area of East Fayetteville would not be a natural attraction for locals or visitors.
South King Street is another area with potential. It runs parallel to the river, south of Person Street and is home to several manufacturing plants including Union Corrugating Company. It has grown since its inception in 1946 to become a large manufacturing and distribution center of metal roofing and siding products. A railroad spur is nearby. Some city officials say it would be difficult at best to incorporate a large park into the area.
The Fayetteville City Council may get recommendations by late spring, according to City Planning Director Scott Shuford. But that would be after the election is held. So, specific recommendations won’t be known when residents are asked to vote on it. Mayor Nat Robertson and Councilman Mitch Colvin contend the vote ought to be put off until November…that it’s premature to hold the referendum in March.