By Beverly Reichel Santa Monica
As a neighborhood resident and user of the Fourth Street steps (189, but the way), I frequently see people exercising on the wide grass median south of Adelaide. I am astounded to learn (“Caught sweating the law,” May 5-6) that such a seemingly healthful, harmless and quiet activity is prohibited and that police resources are being used to enforce the ban.
Given the problems with violence elsewhere in the city, and the anti-social behavior of some in and around Palisades Park and the promenade, it surprises me that the police would zealously enforce the anti-exercise prohibition.
Perhaps the anti-exercise policy should be re-thought, especially in view of the city’s campaign to encourage people to be more physically active, and use of police time to serve more pressing public safety needs should be considered.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on May 16, 2007. Read the original PDF.