Some City of Poughkeepsie residents this week were dismayed to see chains and signage blocking access to the city-owned property known as Wheaton Park.
However, the city says the restrictions on the hotly debated property are temporary as it plans spring cleanup work this week.
After the work we do intend to allow public access during daylight hours, said Marc Nelson, the city administrator. He would not confirm when the park would open back up.
Use of the property, which dates back more than 150 years, has long been at the center of debate. While some residents view the property as a park, with valuable green space that should remain available to all, the city has for years been working with developers interested in building on the property.