D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray celebrated the opening of a new playground in Northwest Washington Wednesday. The playground is located in a renovated park near First and New York Avenue.

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People who live nearby say drugs and crime have been an ongoing concern in the area. They fear the problems will return unless stronger measures are taken.

"The mayor, why he has these ribbon cuttings and disappears and no one's putting in real solutions," said Martin Moulton, a community activist.

Residents say keeping the park safe for children has been a struggle and that it used to be littered with alcohol bottles and trash. Many would like to see an increase in security and the installation of security cameras. 

A metal fence and a gate that can be locked at night are both in place to deter future criminal activity. Mayor Gray says an abandoned library kiosk next door will be addressed.