"Save Otter Creek" is the three-word rallying cry from hundreds of park supporters opposed to Mayor Abramson's decision to close Otter Creek Park.
It is another cost-saving measure the city is using to make up for the $20 million budget shortfall. Some fear closing the park will lead to its deterioration and destruction.
Dave Longley fears the city's decision to close Otter Creek Park indefinitely will lead to neglect and even vandalism.
"We were crushed. That was one of the many reasons we bought our house because it borders the park. It's a terrible blow to everybody," said Longley.
"The mayor's too busy to come to this for some reason, he doesn't want to talk to us for some reason," said Patsy Bowman, rally organizer.
Last week, Mayor Jerry Abramson announced a series of cuts to projects and services in an effort to reduce the city's $20 million deficit. The Metro Parks department was among the hardest hit.
"I know a lot of folks are going to be missing the opportunity to visit it but it's very costly to operate," said Mayor Jerry Abramson.
Located in Meade County, 16 miles south of Metro Louisville, the creation of Otter Creek Park dates back to President Roosevelt's New Deal. The city of Louisville took it over in the 1940s, and it costs $1.1 million a year to operate, with $500,000 of that trickling in from taxpayers.
Supporters of the park argue the eight miles worth of trail around it and the creek itself offer unique amenities that aren't available at other Louisville parks. They are hoping ideas like an admission might sway the city to keep the park open.
The city says an entrance fee would increase the city's legal liability for park-goers and in turn cost more money.
Right now, the park will close in January, a security gate will be installed and local law enforcement will conduct patrols.
"It's just a shame to let all of this go to waste," said Longley.
The city plans to refund 18 families who had planned weddings in the park from March until June of next year. Those who scheduled after that time are out of luck.
The parks eight full-time employees will be transferred to other areas. Officials at Fort Knox and the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources have expressed interest in operating the park.
