Get the cameras, reopen the pavilion

A recent press release indicated that a pavilion and parking area in Redden State Forest have been closed indefinitely due to unsavory drug and sex activity. An access point for the sprawling forest complex, the pavilion and parking area are intended give people a way to responsibly enjoy Delaware's natural resources.

With the future of healthcare in our nation in unsteady territory, the need for places for people to get outside and be active has never been greater. The best insurance against the heavy financial burdens caused by health issues is to keep ourselves in good shape. When the irresponsible behavior of a few diminishes the opportunities for many to be outside and live healthier lives, we lose as individuals and society.

The state wants to reopen the historic pavilion and parking area but can't guarantee a positive experience for everyone who goes there. No one wants to take their family for a picnic and a hike and have to share that space with those seeking casual sexual encounters or making drug transactions.

There isn't enough money available to keep officers monitoring the location frequently to break up the problem. And our cash-strapped state also has scarce resources to install monitoring cameras that might deter those involved in the undesirable activity. But officials say upgrades are being planned, including cameras, despite the lack of a timetable.

Such systems have proven cost-effective. For the past several years, families have encountered uncomfortable scenarios at the trailhead for the Junction and Breakwater hiking and bicycling trail near the Wolfe House on Wolfe Neck Road between Lewes and Rehoboth Beach. In 2016, the state installed surveillance cameras and posted signs advertising them.

The number of people backed into parking places and lurking in their vehicles has been reduced significantly. The comfort level of those using the trailhead as intended has increased more than proportionately.

We can't allow opportunities to be outdoors and accessing state areas to be spoiled by a few. The state should move quickly to find the relatively small funding needed to install cameras, and reopen the pavilion and parking area closed at Redden State Forest.