Friday March 27, 2020 2:23 PM

MEDIA RELEASE

 

March 27, 2020

For Information, contact Amanda Rogers, rogersaa@owensboro.org

 

Owensboro Parks & Recreation Outdoor Park and Sport Court Closings

 

As a precautionary measure to minimize opportunities for the transmission and spread of COVID-19, the City of Owensboro and our Parks & Recreation team are implementing closures to outdoor park amenities and sport courts.  Those closed items are:

 

  • Playgrounds,
  • Shelters,
  • Basketball Courts,
  • Volleyball Courts,
  • Soccer Fields,
  • Baseball/Softball Fields,
  • Tennis Courts,
  • Travis Aubrey Skate Park,
  • Legion Street Soccer Court,
  • Water Fountains,
  • and Park Restrooms.

 

 

Outdoor park greenspace and walking trails are effectively all that remain open.  However, we ask everyone who uses those spaces to follow CDC guidelines:

  • Do not use parks or trails including the Adkisson Greenbelt Park if you are sick or exhibiting symptoms,

  • Observe the CDC’s minimum recommended social distancing of 6’ between persons,

  • Follow CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene prior to visiting,

  • And, no more than 10 people in any area at one time,

The National Parks and Recreation Association (NRPA) shares that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) flagged mental health as a top concern associated with the COVID-19 outbreak. As does the NRPA, we at Owensboro Parks & Recreation acknowledge social distancing may affect mental health, especially during high-stress and anxiety-producing public health concerns as we currently face. We also know parks provide a connection to the outdoors and green space as well as opportunities for physical activity that studies demonstrate reduce stress and improve mental health.  Owensboro Parks & Recreation supports the responsible use of our greenspace and walking trails during this time.  Responsible use allows people to enjoy the mental and physical health benefits these spaces provide. Responsible use means following CDC and state guidelines.

Keep in mind this is an unprecedented situation, and our goal above all else is to ensure the safety of our citizens, participants and team members.  We apologize for any inconvenience, and ask all to remain patient during this time as we do our part.  Updates will continue as the situation evolves.

 

#TEAMOBKY           #TOGETHERKY

 

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