New park opens at Seattles Little Saigon neighborhood in public safety move [Video]

SEATTLE – Seattle’s Little Saigon neighborhood in the Chinatown-International District has been plagued with crime and encampments, but now, a new community-inspired park is hoping to help the neighborhood and provide a safe area for the community to gather.

FOX 13 was at the grand opening and ribbon cutting for the Hoa Mai Park on Saturday. The event was complete with music, dancing and a traditional performance. Community leaders, including Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell were also at the park’s opening.

“This is a gem in the city and that’s why it’s so critical for us to preserve the cultural gem and make sure it’s safe,” Harrell said.

Safety is a top concern in the area because just steps away from the new park, the streets are lined with people who are unhoused and using drugs.

“We are fully committed to public safety, and we are not satisfied with where we are, but we are all in …