DECATUR -- Keeping housing out of Decatur public parks--that's what some in Decatur are pushing for.
A group called "Stop Housing in Decatur Public Parks" started a petition, asking residents to take a stand against building homes in parks or any public park lands.
The park district plans to put condos on park district land under the Lakefront Development plan.
"To take access to this park area away from the public is just unacceptable," said Monte Calhoun in Chandler Park on Tuesday.
Petitioners argue housing harms wildlife and increases vehicle traffic, negatively affecting the experience of park visitors.
Park district officials said a vibrant waterfront will attract more people to the area. Construction on condos in Chandler Park could begin in 2015.
