Detroit To Close 77 Parks In Budget Fight

Detroit Mayor Dave Bing's budget standoff with cost-cutters on the city council is continuing, with his announcement of plans to close 77 parks next month.

Bing's administration released a closing list Thursday that included several large parks, including Palmer Park, Rouge Park and Historic Fort Wayne.

Officials said they selected larger parks because they cost more to maintain.

Park closings and other cuts have resulted from failed budget compromises between Bing's office and the council.

"Our community is right to be outraged at these potential closures.  It's the result of a Council that ignored the realities of the cuts they imposed in departments citywide whether in park maintenance, recreation centers or public safety departments," Bing said in a statement.

"I presented a budget that reduced spending by $100 million without these unwarranted service cuts.  Council had an opportunity to avoid these cuts had they approved my budget or chosen not to override my veto.  At the end of the day, they chose to move forward with their budget.  I will continue to work to avoid these cuts but will need the support of our residents to do so," Bing said.

City council members said they will continue to negotiate with Bing in hopes of avoiding some closures. The new fiscal year starts July 1. 

© 2010 WWJ Radio, All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.