Some hikers wary over new surveillance pilot program at Garden of the Gods Park

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) – There are new surveillance cameras in Garden of the Gods, and some hikers told KRDO they're concerned about what that means for privacy.

The park manager at the Garden of the Golds said the new cameras are in response to more crime in the area, including an increase in cars getting broken into in the parking lots.

In April, two signs were damaged at the park. The "s" in Gods was chiseled away on the big Garden of the Gods sign at the front of the park. Another sign at the Visitor and Nature Center was also damaged.

The park installed three different cameras in September as part of a surveillance pilot program. The new cameras were added near the hiking trails and parking lots. The park manager said the cameras are also to create a safer experience for all visitors.

However, many visitors told KRDO they go to Garden of the Gods Park to "get away," and some are concerned that adding cameras could take away from the experience.

"It's an invasion of privacy and I really don't think it's necessary it really just like spying, it can be helpful to see maybe where people go in case of an emergency, but I just don't really think it's worth it," said hiker Seth Harvey.

These cameras are not a permanent solution to the rise in vandalism at the park.

Park leaders said the cameras are not a permanent solution to the rise in vandalism and crime at the park. Officials said the trial is to see if it can help them prevent vandalism and potentially catch those responsible faster.

The park is asking visitors to be mindful and not leave valuable items in their vehicles during their experience.

Right now it is unclear when park leaders will make a decision on this program potentially being more permanent.