The city of Hopkinsville has announced new closures and restrictions at local park and recreation facilities related to the novel coronavirus pandemic.
All playgrounds, park restrooms and the Hopkinsville Skate Park are closed, Parks and Recreation Superintendent said in a news release.
Those are in addition to the Thomas Street Recreation Center and the Planters Bank-Jennie Stuart Health Sportsplex, which closed on March 15.
All of the closures are in effect until April 13.
The public may still use the Greenway Rail Trail, Tie Breaker Park walking trail and Pardue Lane Dog Park.
Signs will be posted at all facilities and if any of the areas become a regular gathering place of more than 10 people, those facilities will also be closed, the city announced.
“Congregating in parks and the lack of social distancing is certainly a concern, which is why we are putting these actions into motion,” Brockman said. “While it would be best if residents and visitors enjoy the weather and natural beauty in their own yards and neighborhoods, we also understand there is still a need to keep some of our treasured park spaces open on a restricted basis. As always, in everything we do, the safety and well-being of our community is paramount, now more than ever.”
Beginning Tuesday, March 24, city employees will be making four daily visits to facilities to make sure the new restrictions are being followed.
Jennifer P. Brown is co-founder, publisher and editor of Hoptown Chronicle. You can reach her at editor@hoptownchronicle.org. Brown was a reporter and editor at the Kentucky New Era, where she worked for 30 years. She is a co-chair of the national advisory board to the Institute for Rural Journalism and Community Issues, governing board past president for the Kentucky Historical Society, and co-founder of the Kentucky Open Government Coalition. She serves on the Hopkinsville History Foundation's board.
