Iowa City released a press release Monday afternoon to try and curb potentially illegal activity on the new Park Road Bridge.

“In the days since the opening of the new Park Road Bridge to pedestrians and vehicles, the City has been made aware of various social media posts featuring dangerous use of the new bridge’s arches,” the press release said. “In response, the City is working with its contractor to restrict access to the arches. Meanwhile, Iowa City Police have also increased patrol of the area.”

“Anyone who falls from the arches will sustain life-threatening injuries at the very least,” Police Chief Jody Matherly said in the release. “We are concerned for the safety of our residents and visitors. Stay off the arches.”

The release said people who choose to trespass on the arches will face a simple misdemeanor charge for trespassing, and urges locals to call 911 after witnessing any illegal activity.

-Charles Peckman