Crews clean up large amount of politically motivated graffiti along Cherry Creek Trail

DENVER (KDVR) — Cyclists and runners along the Cherry Creek Trail in Denver could see politically motivated graffiti that stretched for blocks Monday morning.

It was painted along the walls of the trail between Pearl Street and Downing Street, and said things like "Free Palestine," "Stop the Bombs" and "Arab Lives Matter."

"I walk this trail almost every single day," said Travis Skodack.

He said he's noticed a recent increase in politically motivated graffiti.

"A lot of graffiti taking note of what people believe in, like 'Free Gaza.'  I'm a big supporter of people voicing their opinions but there may be other means and mechanisms to do so, rather than graffiti," Skodack said.

But the messages weren't visible for long. By late morning, crews showed up with trucks and roller brushes to paint over it all.

"I think in the last couple of weeks things have been getting much cleaner," said Wilbur Lin, who was running the trail.

Denver Parks and Recreation crews have had to clean up other politically motivated graffiti this month, including one time at City Park. 

A spokesperson offered a statement that said, "Unfortunately, graffiti and tagging along trails and in parks is not uncommon. DPR rangers, maintenance and operations staff work together with other city agencies to cover up the graffiti when found and park rangers may issue citations to anyone found tagging. Our priority is to restore affected areas and ensure our parks, trails and shared spaces remain safe and welcoming for everyone. Residents may report tagging to 311."