The Rope Swing and Shipyard Park

Over the years the rope swing over the North River in Shipyard Park has been used by many kids and adults (kids at heart). This swing has undergone many iterations as it has been removed, replaced, tied to another branch and now is tied to a tall branch of a tree leaning over the river. To swing, you have to climb up boards nailed to another tree to gain the needed height.

This swing has been the source of much delight, concern and debate. The attendees at the annual meeting on May 18 voiced several opinions, whereupon it was decided that the fate of the rope swing should be put to a vote of the Barque Hill residents.

Tom Flynn at the annual meeting made a presentation which focused on the most pressing concern, which of the legal liability to the Association should someone be hurt. Noting that the Trustees of the Reservations had faced a similar concern, their solution was to prominently place signs in several areas with the rules of the reservation. Ours is a different problem in that we are concerned about trespassing. It is suggested that if we prominently place NO TRESPASSING signs as a deterrent in at least three locations - the entrance, the landing and the rope swing -, our legal liability might be significantly lessened.

That being said, some of the pros and cons of the rope swing are as follows: 

Cons 

• It's an "attractive nuisance" which attracts many non-residents during the warm weather. 
• Trash is sometimes left behind as is evidence of alcohol. 
• The presence of strangers inhibits the enjoyment of Shipyard Park by Barque Hill residents. 
• It's difficult for police to effectively patrol this area. 
• In today's world, there is no guarantee that signage would prevent the Association from being successfully sued in the event of injury. 
• Speeding and property damage has been associated with non-residents utilizing Shipyard Park.

Pros 

• The rope swing is a unique feature of our neighborhood. 
• Several residents and many resident children derive great enjoyment from this pastime. 
• Many resident families enjoy watching others swing. 
• The behavior of non-resident participants has generally been polite and respectful of others. 
• Appropriate signage and increased surveillance by residents and police may further deter non-residents.