The “Hamstercage,” or Division Street Parking Garage has been a big orange and blue part of East Lansing since 1988.
And right underneath it, is something new this year.
“What has been occurring is a part of a larger project we’ve been implementing to activate our downtown,” Community and Economic Development Administrator Adam Cummins said.
The city added artwork and lounge areas near the entrances to the garage, and they are popular — so popular that people are stealing them.
“We’ll have signs walk-off, we’ve had local art from local artists walk-off, vandalized, you know, picnic tables, chairs,” Cummins said.
So many people love the new East Lansing, some are committing crimes.
Last month, the city took to social media after a group stole a mat from the area.
The post quote: “Unfortunately, negative behaviors, including theft and vandalism, have continued to be a persistent problem…”
And it’s not just happening in the lounging area, various spaces across East Lansing are being affected by these incidents.”
East Lansing Police Deputy Chief noticed a spike in these behaviors recently.
“Over the last several months, we have seen an increase in vandalism and destruction of property.”
And because of it, the city is currently in conversation about different ways to take action.
“Those things can range from increased officer patrols to more cameras, to unique environmental shifts to prevent these types of behaviors from occurring,” Gonzalez said.
He hopes that those involved recognize that their actions do have an effect.
“Their activities, while at 2’oclock in the morning may not seem like it’s gonna impact others, it definitely has an impact.”
Unattended outside materials are under lock and chain in East Lansing and security cameras were recently installed downtown to deter these behaviors.
The stolen turf has since returned to the lounge area and no further action will be taken against the individuals.