LEISURE

Handicapped Lead Way in Public Space Use
City's urban spaces remain grossly unused save the disabled crowd

(KB) DES MOINES - In a new report issued by the Committee on Recreational Space Procurement, statistics reveal that Polk County parks and public spaces are only properly utilized by the disabled population.  Proper use of these spaces is the committee's gauge on community demand for public spaces in Polk County.
       "Currently we're seeing gross under-use of our urban gardens here in Des Moines,"  says Marie Schopenskwat, a committee leader.  "Unfortunately, proper use of public space does not cover teenagers copulating in our fountains after dark or white-collar criminal activity in the public restrooms."   If it weren't for the handicapped, Schopenskwat says, the city's budget for public spaces would be terminated indefinitely.