(BEDFORD) – The City of Bedford is closing area playgrounds and restricting activities at area parks.
“One thing is certain: As our daily lives change during this time of influx, we all want, and need, opportunities to keep us active and fit,” said Mayor Sam Craig. “Therefore, we would like you to make use of our outdoor City parks to keep healthy – physically and mentally – and to provide activities for kids who suddenly have no school and unlimited time without being able to hang with friends. We are still restricting playground areas at this time but will allow some activities at the city parks. If we see that citizens are not following the guidelines then we will revisit this area.
The Otis Park Club House will be closed.
“We will keep monitoring this area and updates will be provided as needed,” said Mayor Craig.
Parks:
Effective today, all city parks; excluding playgrounds, shelters, and concessions will reopen. The tennis courts, skatepark, basketball courts, and ball fields will all be available for use.
Beginning Monday, March 23″, Otis Park Golf Course will open for those wishing to walk the course and play at their leisure.
Recreation:
The Easter Eggstravaganza, originally scheduled for April 11, has been postponed.Â
Bedford Softball Association Umpire Clinic April 18th has been postponed until further notice.
The BSA Registration deadline will be extended – Accordingly, league play will be pushed back to reflect this shift, and information will be published as determined.
“Your health and safety remain the city’s number one priority,” said Mayor Craig. “Thus, effective public social distancing, and other guidance or regulations, remain imperative; and are critical individual responsibility.
Here are a few recommendations for you to practice when enjoying your city parks:
Follow CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene prior to heading to parks – wash hands, carry hand sanitizer,
Do not visit if you have symptoms, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, etc.Â
At all times, please observe the CDC’s minimum recommended social distancing of six feet from other people. Practice it and know what it looks like. Keep it as you walk, bike or hike.
Note that park users may find public restrooms closed – be prepared before you leave and time outings so that you are not dependent on public restrooms.
Bring water or drinks – public drinking fountains may be disabled and should not be used, even if operable.
Bring a suitable trash bag. Leave no trash; take everything out to protect park workers
“There is no question that this is a fluid and evolving situation, and guidelines may change,” added Mayor Craig. “This guidance is current today; the City of Bedford Parks and Recreation will continue to follow recommended actions for preventing the spread of COVID-19. If you have a question about a specific program, rental, or park operation, please contact our office directly at 812-275-5692.
