A list of parks set to reopen has been posted and although beaches are still closed, this could change by the end of April. Kevin Faulconer, San Diego City Mayor, recently announced the welcome news after nearly five weeks of closure to contain the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.
Thanks to San Diegans following the rules as strictly as we have, Mayor Faulconer revealed that hospitals have managed to adequately meet the demands of patients. As such, neighbourhood parks will once again be able to allow visitors, albeit in a limited capacity, and will be able to keep doing so for as long as we follow the regulations. If rulings start being ignored, however, they’ll have to close again.
Park Limitations
Residents will be able to get outdoors and visit parks in their neighbourhood but can only do so in their individual capacity. This means walking and jogging is allowed as long as you’ve got a facial covering on. You are still forbidden to gather in groups, however, or participate in group sports, and Basketball courts, parking lots, and playgrounds are still closed for now.
The Mayor said that we’re not allowed to drive to parks, either, seeing as parking lots are not open yet as per public health orders.
A full list of spaces slated to reopen is now viewable on the city’s website. If there are none in your area just yet, hold on! We’re getting things under control and you’ll be able to do something besides play real money pokies online soon!
What We Have to Look Forward To
Mayor Faulconer talked of wanting to provide an outlet for people to be more active mentally and physically as far as possible as we try to define the New Normal. He also mentioned that he is connecting with Mayors in cities along the San Diego County coast to discuss reopening beaches, boardwalks, golf courses, and trails.
The decision to reopen these areas by the end of April will be driven by data, with full compliance to directives from county health officials to ensure safety not only to the general public but to protection personnel too.
The Rules Still to Be Obeyed
Physical distancing must still be followed in accordance with local, regional, and state orders to help stem the spread of COVID-19 and face coverings are highly recommended when visiting parks. Please stay home if you have a cough or are running a fever, maintain a minimum distance of six feet between you and anyone else, and do not shake hands or engage in any unnecessary physical contact.
Restrooms will be available for public use at these areas and trails with open spaces will also be accessible, except for those at Cowles Mountain and the Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve. However, amenities like bicycle pump tracks, campgrounds, dog off-leash areas, joint-use areas in school districts, and nature and rec centres will remain off-limits.
No active sports are allowed, nor are organised activities. Grouping is forbidden and Baseball and Soccer fields along with Tennis courts will stay closed.
