Fort Collins Resident Raises Concerns Over Mechanical Blower Use in City Park, Citing Dust and Public Disturbance
A Fort Collins resident, Peter Schultz, has voiced concerns regarding the use of mechanical blowers by city crews in City Park while the park is occupied by the public. Schultz, who regularly visits the park, observed city employees using blowers near park visitors, creating large dust clouds. He recounted an instance where a friend was directly exposed to a dust cloud and mentioned his own breathing issues, which sometimes necessitate covering his face when blowers are in use. While Schultz is not against routine maintenance or the use of blowers in general, his primary concern is their operation during busy periods. He contacted the city about these issues and was informed that such incidents would not recur, but he later witnessed similar situations. The City of Fort Collins Parks & Recreation Department acknowledges having guidelines, specifically Section 3.12 of its Dust Prevention and Control Manual, which addresses the use of mechanical blowers around the public. The city has stated it is reinforcin...