Naples overlooks Anthony Park shortfalls, visitors say

Lots of pomp and circumstance in Naples Thursday, as the city celebrated the opening of Baker Park.

When a person looks at the gardens and amenities, the park looks like a five-star resort.

While the city is grateful to the Baker family for once again using its wealth to make a difference, some people told WINK News that they feel left behind.

Over at Anthony Park, people have been waiting for the city to make it safer and more inviting, like Baker Park.

It is a long time coming as constructions workers are building public access bathrooms at Anthony Park. Clairy Joseph, a mother, said it would make a big difference for families who live nearby.

“That’s even better because you don’t have to run to 7-Eleven,” Joseph said. “You don’t have to run to somewhere else to use the restroom. I mean it’s convenient for the kids and for the people who come to the park.”

Mother of three youngsters, Joseph likes to take her kids to Anthony Park after church services. But, she can not stay too long without restrooms to use. She hopes to see more at the park and for the park.

“They need to make it more attentive to kids,” Joseph said. “Maybe build some certain activities in the park that way they can attract more attention.”

Allison Eckstein comes to the park frequently.

“I’m here every day because I love growing and I enjoy rowing every day.”

Eckstein, who is part of a rowing club that practices at the park, houses her equipment in a shed. She wants to see a park that supports outdoor activities for her and other people.

“It’s wonderful work for what it does,” Eckstein said. “But, it would be nice to be a little bigger that has windows and aeration.”