PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Neighbors near a Southeast Portland elementary school are concerned its park could become a dumping ground for needles.

The trees at Lincoln Park — which sits next to Lincoln Park Elementary — provide a lot of cover for illegal activity and drug transactions.

David Douglas School District officials told KOIN 6 News some needles were found in October beneath a storm grate on school grounds, but the needles weren’t easily accessible to students and were cleaned up right away.

There haven’t been any recent reports since, they said.

But the park, neighbors said, is another story.

Steven Galvin is a resident who lives near Lincoln Park in Southeast Portland, January 10, 2019 (KOIN)

One neighbor told KOIN 6 News he finds needles there often. Other residents said it’s concerning but not surprising.

“I’ve noticed cops patrolling the area quite frequently and I’m pretty sure it’s well-known knowledge that this park especially is trouble,” said Steven Galvin, who lives near the park.

Galvin added that he sees people going in and out of the park at all hours of the night.

Marie, who asked her last name not be used, said she walks by the park frequently.

“Obviously it’s the exact place that children go to play,” she said.

Some underbrush and overgrown areas at the park have been cleared away, which neighbors said helps the situation. And, they added, police are quick to respond if there’s a problem.