Cops step up Austin trail patrols

AUSTIN (KXAN) - If you're out for a jog, a walk or taking a ride on your bike, you'll notice a few more tires on Austin's trails these days. Austin police are stepping up patrols becuase more complaints of people breaking the law.

"Our enforcement is quite heavy," said Sgt. Scott Gunnlaugsson with APD's Parks Department. "In fact, two days ago we wrote over 20 citations for alcohol citations down in this area."

This area refers to the greenbelt in South Austin. Police said nearby neighborhood associations have called in complaints about people drinking alcohol, walking their dogs without leashes and homeless camps being set up in the area.

"We're expecting a higher volume of people down on the trails this year and we'll be a showing a greater police presence," said Sgt. Gunnlaugsson. "We want people to come down and enjoy the trails and have fun."

You'll also notice more bikes on the trail around Lady Bird Lake. Nada and Nick Babic come down for a walk and picnic every day and said they also see a cops roll by.

"I think its good," said Nada. "Safe for children, for everybody. It is beautiful here and we like it this way. Who else has this?" she asked pointing to the sun glinting off the lake and ducks swimming by.

Most runners agree that police presence makes them feel safer as they run on one of Austin's not so hidden jewels.