How long has it been so "clearly marked"? I don't know that park. But I do know others with these stone chess tables. At the ones I know kids are a distinct minority.
ML/NJ
According to the article one of those ticketed saw the signs “months ago” but claims a cop told him it was ok to be there anyway.
Again, not defending the ticketing, just commenting on the hyped headline and “interesting” banana placement on kids cartoon artwork of one of the men ticketed in the kids area.
Another reason to NOT live in or near New York. How many kids play chess yet they have chess tables set up. The gate and signs were put up and the park authorities failed to move the tables. So the make something illegal that used to be legal by putting up a sign.
The men should have claimed illegal immigrant status and a parade would have been thrown in their honor to celebrate diversity.