DENVER (KDVR) — Denver leaders lifted the public health order for Civic Center Park and some areas reopened Wednesday.

Pioneer Fountain at the corner of Broadway and Colfax, MacIntosh Park Plaza at 15th Avenue and Cleveland Street and other areas within Civic Center Park will remain closed while being restored, according to a Denver Parks and Recreation press release.

The park, which sits between the Colorado Capitol and the Denver City and County building, was closed and the homeless population was cleared out Sept. 15 after the city declared the park a health hazard.

The conditions at the park deteriorated over the past year. Trash, needles, leftover food, feces and rats caused major environmental and health problems within the park. Park officials said drug use also led to criminal activity.

The Denver Department of Public Health and Environment said after inspecting the park, it found the hazards have been cleaned up, making the area safe for visitors.

Patricia could not wait for the park to open again. 

She and her dog Sherona had been to the park for years before it shut down.

“I am really happy this park is back open and today is the perfect day for it to open. It feels safe and nice,” said Patricia.  

Chase Johnson had just arrived from Los Angeles when he saw the park shortly after opening.  

“I feel so lucky that I came at the right time. It’s such a beautiful building. Vista. Trees are gorgeous. It seems like a really peaceful part of the city,” said Johnson.