CHEYENNE, Wyo. — Cheyenne Frontier Days staff have chosen to close Frontier Park to the public during non-event hours due to recent incidents of vandalism. The Cheyenne Police Department is currently investigating the situation.
Two separate vandalism incidents have occurred at the park in recent weeks, per a news release from CFD. The first instance was on Oct. 31, while the other was Wednesday, Nov. 13.
The new park restrictions pertain to all areas of Frontier Park excluding the Old West Museum, Chute 10 Mercantile store, Events Center and Tennis Center. Official public events such as the farmers market will also remain active.
CFD CEO Tom Hirsig said the decision to shut down the park came down to public safety and protecting the ongoing vitality of the park.
“We would love to allow folks to continue to enjoy the property, but our responsibility is to ensure the long-term health of CFD,” Hirsig said via the news release. “We could be liable if anyone got hurt. One unfortunate accident could put the future of CFD in jeopardy, and we can’t afford to take that chance.”
As explained in the CFD news release, the organization could be held liable for injuries that occur at the park. The company cites increased hazard risks such as high winds, ice, snow and uneven or cracked walkways as other components factoring into its decision.
CFD leadership is holding a public meeting at the company headquarters, 1230 W. 8th Ave., at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 19 to further elaborate on the decision to close the park. The public will also have a chance to voice thoughts and concerns.
The Cheyenne Police Department stated Friday that it responded to a vandalism incident at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday. Security camera footage shows five individuals entering the park and spray-painting structures, grandstands, a fence line and sidewalks with graphics and profanity.
CPD’s Detective Bureau is investigating the case. Anyone with information regarding the situation can contact detectives at 307-637-6513 or submit information anonymously at 307-638-8477 or the Crime Stoppers website here.
