MORRIS COUNTY PARK COMMISSION CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATE June 24th

Morristown, NJ.  On Wednesday, June 24, 2020, the Morris County Park Commission is issuing an update on the previously posted response to park operations related to COVID-19.

 

“The Morris County Park Commission understands the importance of providing access to your parks but is also responsible for the safety of park staff and patrons along the stewardship responsibility of protecting the natural, cultural and historic resources under its care.  Please do your best when accessing these important resources to respect your fellow park visitor and park resources you are enjoying."  Dave Helmer, Executive Director

 

The Commission asks that Park Visitors and Patrons Please Cooperate with Social Distancing protocols as determined by the CDC and Governor Murphy’s Executive Orders.

 

Parking may be limited at some locations and undesignated areas and unauthorized parking on nearby streets and private property is prohibited. Morris County Park Police are enforcing parking rules so as to limit unsafe conditions for park users.   The goal is to reduce the number of potential visitors and allow for proper social distancing. This is especially important during weekends and normal peak use periods. "We know there are a lot of county residents who enjoy our parks and can't wait to visit them, especially during this crisis -- and we are glad to welcome you again,'' said Park Commission Executive Director Dave Helmer, "But we also have an obligation to follow the Governor's Executive Orders, to help protect the health of our visitors and park staff and to do our part to reduce the spread of this virus.'' We look forward to the day when all of the trails, grounds, gardens, facilities, and historic sites will be open again and as we move towards full recovery, please respect the rules in place right now and cooperate with our parks officials and park police.

 

Helmer explained that trails in some of the county parks that have reopened are not very wide, and that social distancing could be a problem, especially if there are too many people using the trails at one time. He also asked that county residents follow the Governor's recommendation to wear face coverings while in county parks, or to at least have them available to use if you encounter other park patrons in close proximity. Many of the Park Commission's 38 distinct parks, facilities and trails reopened Saturday, May 2, with reduced parking and strict social distancing requirements. 15 public stand-alone restrooms reopened on Wednesday, June 24th and will be open Wednesday thru Sunday but will remain closed until daily disinfecting is completed.   All buildings remain closed the general public along with playgrounds.   Park Permits are now available for various sites and facilities as long as social distancing measures can be maintained and current Executive Order protocols are followed.

 

All Park Commission sponsored programs, camps, activities, events have been cancelled until further notice.