GRANTS PASS – As Josephine County begins Phase One operations under state guidelines for reopening, certain restrictions remain in effect regarding the use of city parks. Grants Pass park open spaces, trails and bike paths remain fully accessible to those practicing social distancing, but other amenities such as playgrounds, and athletic courts, must remain closed until the county is approved to move into further phases.
“This will be disappointing for many, but our primary goal is to follow state guidelines during the pandemic recovery and to protect our communities,” said Lora Glover, director of Parks and Community Development.
Pursuant to the Oregon Health Authority reopening guidance, the city is required to ensure protocols such as limiting groups or parties to 10 people or fewer. City staff is required to monitor such groups to ensure that they maintain at least six feet of physical distance between groups. The city is also required to prohibit groups of more than 10 from congregating in parking lots for periods longer than reasonable.
Day-use areas prone to attracting crowds, such as playgrounds, picnic shelters and structures, water parks and pools, and sports courts are to remain closed.
“We realize this will be a burden on some members of our athletic community, but feel it is in the best interest to follow the guidance requirements outlined by the Oregon Health Authority and protect the public health,” said Glover.
According to state guidelines, a county must remain in Phase One operations for at least 21 days before seeking approval to move into Phase Two. Additional information about state guidelines and best practices regarding social distancing can be found on the city’s website: https://www.grantspassoregon.gov/1355/COVID-19-Information.
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