PORTLAND, Maine — Portland Trails has issued an indefinite public safety alert for a popular walking trail in Portland's Riverton neighborhood.
The nonprofit is encouraging people to avoid using part of the Presumpscot River Trail because of public safety hazards along the path, Portland Trails Executive Director Jon Kachmar said.
“There have been documented incidents of violence and injury to people," Kachmar told NEWS CENTER Maine. "There have been dogs off leash that have been aggressive and bit people, and there’s been threatening behavior from people who are having a mental health crisis and substance abuse challenges.”
The alert is for the section of the trail beginning along Forest Ave. and extending down to the Homeless Services Center on Riverside Street.
"We're not aware of any hikers being involved in any violence," Kocher added.
Portland Trails is working with the Portland Police Department and Portland Parks and Rec. to help resolve the issue.
“We do plan to have some volunteer opportunities to clear vegetation to make it less conducive to encamping, which isn’t allowed there," said Kachmar.
Until the trail is safe again, Kachmar asks walkers and hikers to check out the dozens of other trails it maintains.
Click here to see the list of trails on Portland Trails' website.