From the start of freshman year, Syracuse University students are warned not to walk in Thornden Park because of crimes that occurred there.

Although these violent crimes are very serious, Syracuse Police Department statistics show Thornden has not had more crime than other areas in the East neighborhood during the past five years. Students and community members should know all the information regarding Thornden, both good and bad, and then make an informed decision on whether to go to the park.

The park offers a variety of activities for students and community members, especially as the warm weather picks up. There’s a pool and basketball court, along with a football field used by the Pop Warner program. Shakespeare in the Park happens each summer in Thornden, too. The E.M. Mills Rose Garden is award-winning. The Lily Pond, a man-made waterfall, is also tucked away in the park.

The park can be enjoyed year-round as well. The park is a great area for running. In the winter, hills in the park provide a great opportunity for sledding.

In terms of safety, park visitors should follow all the same safety precautions when traveling through the park as they should while traveling through other areas on or off campus. The park is not open during the night, although those who choose to walk through it illegally should nr cautious.

If students are properly educated on the statistics about Thornden Park compared to the rest of campus and if students don’t fall to the stigma and myth of the park, they can find another place to spend time and enjoy the area surrounding campus.