Protesters say Paulson Spray Park opening a 'political stunt'

The squeals of delighted children mixed with the shouts of protesters at Saturday’s opening of a new city spray park in Lincoln-Lemington-Belmar.

The Paulson Spray Park and Playground opened at noon Saturday at the site of the former Paulson Swimming Pool, which had been closed for more than a decade.

The new spray park was part of a $1.2 million project that included the installation of piping for water features, improvements to the existing pool house and the addition of a large mural.

But protesters who attended the grand opening accused the city administration, including Mayor Bill Peduto and District 9 Councilman Ricky Burgess, of neglect and political opportunism.

One of them carried a sign that said “Fight Gentrification With Revolution.”

Protesters told Tribune-Review news partner WPXI-TV that the neighborhood has been neglected and that the spray park opening was moved up only because of Tuesday’s municipal primary elections.

“It’s just a political stunt that’s being hosted by the city,” said Kierran Young, 26, of Stanton Heights, who is running against Burgess in Tuesday’s primary.

Peduto did not comment on the substance of the protesters’ complaints but said, “It’s what makes this country great. Dissent is democracy, and everybody has that right to be able to speak their mind. Their word was heard.”

Lots of fun in Lincoln-Lemington-Belmar! This afternoon, Mayor @billpeduto joined @Citiparks & @PGHDPW for the grand opening of the NEW Paulson Spray Park!

The Mayor & community members celebrated the return of high quality amenities & investment into this neighborhood. pic.twitter.com/sayaU5chwG

— Office of the Mayor (@TheNextPGH) May 18, 2019