ST. LOUIS – The main attraction at Benton Park has looked a little different as of late.
Mini sinkholes have been siphoning water from the lake in south city. There’s caution tape surrounding the sinkholes as the city prepares to drain the lake and fix the issue.
“There’s all this caution tape,” parkgoer Lex Kosieradzki said. “There’s actually a big hole in the ground.”
There are a few sinkholes just a few feet from the lake. The largest is about a few feet wide and a couple of feet deep.
The lake’s water level is far below it’s usual level. A city spokesperson released the following statement regarding the issue:
“The city is currently working to identify and eliminate the causes of sinkholes by Benton Park Lake.
“Specifically, we are trying to identify the primary locations where water is leaking out to determine the extent of repairs that will be necessary. Once the water level stabilizes and we are more secure in having an uncompromised lake bottom, the city will manually drain the remaining water and begin debris cleanup, followed by the necessary repairs.
“As with any park project, it is important that park visitors take precautions around the worksite to ensure safety for all.“
The animals that call the park home don’t seem to mind too much, as several ducks seem to have nested down in some of the tall grass that is now growing around at least one of the sinkholes.
Dominic Johnson said he liked coming to the park to enjoy the animals in their natural habitat.
“It’s beautiful to see natural life,” Johnson said.
He’s hopeful that once the lake is drained, the ducks won’t be too affected by the issue.
