Baton Rouge Baffled by Busted Bollards

Baton Rouge Baffled by Busted BollardsBaton Rouge Baffled by Busted Bollards Baton Rouge residents are puzzled by a series of vandalized bollards that has plagued the city in recent weeks. The concrete and metal poles, designed to protect pedestrians and prevent unauthorized vehicle access, have been shattered or uprooted. Officials report that over a dozen bollards have been damaged since the vandalism spree began. The targeted locations include downtown, the River Front Plaza, and the LSU campus. The cost of repairs is estimated to be in the thousands of dollars. “We’re baffled by this,” said Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome. “These bollards are public property that serve an important safety purpose. Damaging them is not only illegal but also endangers our citizens.” The Baton Rouge Police Department is investigating the vandalism and has appealed to the public for information. No arrests have been made. The vandalism has sparked concern among pedestrians and businesses. “I feel less safe when I see those bollards are broken,” said downtown resident Emily Smith. “They’re there for a reason, to keep cars out of the pedestrian areas.” “They’ve cost us customers,” said John Williams, owner of a downtown coffee shop. “People don’t want to sit outside when they see broken bollards. It makes the area look unsafe.” Officials are urging residents to report any suspicious activity to the police. They are also considering installing security cameras to deter future vandalism. “We won’t tolerate this kind of behavior in our city,” said Chief of Police Murphy Paul. “We will find those responsible and hold them accountable.” As the investigation continues, Baton Rouge residents wait anxiously for an explanation and an end to the bollard vandalism.