BANGOR, Pa. — The official trailer for an upcoming HBO Max crime miniseries includes a scene of people splashing in what may be a familiar watering hole.
But local officials say that no matter how alluring the promo for the upcoming show "Task" makes the cool waters of the former Bangor Union Quarry seem — it's off limits.
In the clip for "Task," set to premiere in September, actor Tom Pelphrey is seen swimming in the waters of the former Bangor Union Quarry.
Pelphrey plays Robbie, a character who with his drug-fueled crew is responsible for a string of home invasions. He's tracked down by fellow star Mark Ruffalo as an FBI agent in charge of the case.
Bangor police officers might not employ the same brash tactics as the FBI, though be forewarned: Those caught trespassing at the quarry will face consequences, including a $500 citation fine and possible arrest.
And keep in mind: the quarry where "Task" was filmed is on private property.
The entrance is protected by a barbed-wire fence and hard-to-miss signage emblazoned with the words, "Trespassers will be prosecuted."
'Both dangerous and illegal'
Bangor, part of the Slate Belt region, is home to more than 20 quarries, which closed after the decline of steel production.
They now remain off-limits to the public because of hazardous concerns.
But that doesn't deter everyone, officials said.
"Swimming in quarries has always been an issue for us, even before filming, it was an issue," Borough Manager Stephen Reider said.
"For decades, it's been an issue since the quarries closed. It may look like fun and exciting, but it's both dangerous and illegal."
Filming at the old quarry off of North Main Street took place last June.
At the time, residents of the area posted in the Facebook group Slate Belt Chatter about the traffic caused by the crew.
"People let’s stay positive about something good being brought to Bangor!" one resident wrote. "We need it! Take the traffic.
"People are working hard to make it a nice production. Show your SLATER PRIDE." Bangor Area High School's sports teams are the Slaters.
The site of fatalities
Borough officials said they didn't meet Ruffalo or Pelphrey ("Ozark" "A Man in Full"), but revealed how the series' heads prepare for the scenes amid safety concerns.
Quarry slopes and ledges are slippery, which can increase the likelihood of an accidental fall, and the waters often can conceal debris under the surface, they said.
"We've had people die in the quarries. It also puts first-responders in jeopardy trying to get people out if they get hurt."Bangor Police Chief Kevin Jones
"They sent their divers in a week before to look for stuff and make sure everything was safe," Reider said.
"It was an impressive detail. They had their security on set, and I think they had a crew stationed there at night to watch over the property."
So as tempting as Pelphrey's character makes it appear to wade in the blue waters, don't do it.
"We've had people die in the quarries," Bangor Police Chief Kevin Jones said. "It also puts first-responders in jeopardy trying to get people out if they get hurt.
"We have to use a boat to get them, and it becomes a dangerous situation all around."
At least four people have died diving and swimming in local quarries, which pose another threat with high, sheer walls and water depths up to 300 feet, according to borough officials.
Produced, directed by Philly natives
"Task," a seven-episode limited series, comes from Berwyn, Chester County, native Brady Ingelsby, creator of the Emmy Award-winning HBO mini-series "Mare of Easttown."
Scenes for that series also were filmed in the Philadelphia suburbs.
"Task" also will star Martha Plimpton, Emilia Jones, Thuso Mbedu, and Raul Castillo.
Philadelphia native and filmmaker Jeremiah Zagar is directing the project.
