in the 1980s and 1990s, crime at the park increased, with drug pushers and junkies using the tea house. vandalism and a couple of fires ruined the tea house, which has since been off limits to all visitors, and only a small portion of the tea house is still standing. heavy flooding overflowed the small lake and stream, drying them up forever. some of the palm trees had to be cut down. the place became unkempt as a result of the cutbacks, making it difficult to maintain the gardens. graffiti was reported on the white columns and the japanese entrance, as well as the outdoor temple, and the roof of the temple was removed. the park now has a sign warning of rattlesnakes in the area. benches were removed as well.