Duluth Closes City Playgrounds, Issues New Guidelines For Parks And Trails
As warmer, more spring-like weather approaches and people look to spend time outside, the Duluth Parks and Recreation Department has made a couple important decisions in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19 while still allowing residents the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.
In an announcement made on Tuesday, the city's parks and recreation department announced that all 38 of the city's playgrounds effective immediately, until further notice.
They also announced the following guidelines for the city's parks and trails:
- Refrain from using parks or trails if you are exhibiting symptoms.
- Follow CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene prior to, during, and after use of parks or trails.
- Be prepared for no access to public restrooms, potable water, or protection from the elements.
- Observe CDC’s minimum separation of six feet from other individuals at all times.
- While on trails, warn other users of your presence and step aside to let others pass.
- Follow CDC guidance on the maximum advisable size of social gatherings.
- Reduce crowding and travel by sticking to close-to-home parks and trails.
- Select alternatives to crowded parks and trails like the Lakewalk.
- Minimize use of high-touch park amenities such as benches, picnic tables, trash cans, and railings.
- Obey all closures of community centers, playgrounds, and restrooms
City staff will be putting up signs about playground closures through the week, but the closure is in effect as of Tuesday, March 24. This closure follows the March 17 announcement of the closure of park buildings and community centers, cancellation of indoor Parks and Recreation programs, classes and lessons, and closure of senior centers.
They also offer ideas for parks and trails to visit on the city's online outdoor recreation map (here).