Published on : Tuesday, April 7, 2020
Back during March, Kalamazoo closed down playgrounds and picnic pavilions in its parks. However, trails and open spaces were not closed and social distancing was encouraged. Jeff Chamberlain, Deputy City Manager, Kalamazoo informed in a recent press statement that over the past two weeks people have taken down caution tape and entered closed skate parks. He said that the latest move will allow a blanket statement for the city parks that at the time of crisis all activities have unfortunately been closed.
He mentioned that public safety has constantly tried to educate people visiting parks to protect their relatives and families to refrain from gathering. He added that as a more strict measure against coronavirus spread the authorities were bound to bring the latest changes.
Anyone who violates the closures and access parks may be subjected to removal by public safety officers as well as face other law enforcement actions. Though some city parks are devoid of gates, signage will be posted at all individual parks.
However, a vast majority of state parks and recreation areas, including the Kal-Haven Trail in Kalamazoo County, continue to remain open. Although Ron Olson, Chief of DNR Parks and Recreation Division said in a recent statement that while state parks and trails are open at present the situation is subjected to change in the future.
He also mentioned that in order to continue the operations of state parks people have to adhere to effective social distancing practices and not travel long distances to enjoy time outdoors. He warned that if concerns increase in future the DNR may have to undertake closures or limit access to state parks and outdoor spaces.
Tags: Coronavirus, Kalamazoo