All Columbus Playgrounds and Basketball Courts are Closed
Columbus Recreation and Parks Department Encourages City to Play Safe and Live Smart
COLUMBUS, OH – Columbus Recreation and Parks Department encourages all residents and visitors to take extra precautions during the coronavirus (COVID-19) public health emergency. With nearly 400 parks, 160 playgrounds, 107 basketball courts and 230 miles of regional trails, the department serves as an essential resource for helping residents of all ages focus on their mental and physical health. At this time, it is critical that residents play safe and live smart to avoid community spread of the COVID-19 virus.
“Parks and open spaces continue to serve as a vital resource for our neighborhoods,” said Columbus Health Commissioner Dr. Mysheika Roberts. “As a city, we continue to be committed to protecting the health and safety of all residents. By closing playgrounds, basketball courts and public recreational equipment, we can all do our part to stop the spread.”
Columbus Public Health is encouraging all residents to step up compliance with the Ohio Department of Health’s orders for social distancing and basic hygiene to slow the spread of COVID-19. As such, the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department asks residents to follow these urgent guidelines:
- All public playgrounds, sports courts and public recreational equipment are closed. This includes recreational equipment like outdoor exercise gyms, basketball courts, picnic tables and sporting equipment for all ages.
- Do not use parks or trails if exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms.
- Follow Columbus Public Health’s guidance on personal hygiene before and during the use of parks or trails. Wash your hands often.
- While on trails, people should warn other users of their presence as they pass, and step aside to let others pass.
- Practice social distancing. Stay six feet from other individuals at all times. If this is not possible, users should find an alternate location or depart that space.
“It’s time to come together. Everyone needs to practice social distancing by staying off playgrounds and basketball courts,” said Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther. “If everyone does their part, I’m confident we can flatten the COVID-19 curve.”
COVID-19 is a highly contagious respiratory illness that does not discriminate: anyone exposed can be infected. The best way to avoid exposure is to stay at home, except for essential trips to the grocery store or pharmacy, wash your hands frequently, and keep a minimum of six feet between you and other people.
For a full list of department-related updates and closures, visit www.columbus.gov/RecreationandParks/. For additional information about COVID-19, visit Columbus Public Health, Ohio Department of Health or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Additionally, Ohio residents with specific questions related to COVID-19 can also call 833-4-ASK-ODH (833-427-5634).