Parks and Recreation Update: Openings for Phase 2

Richmond, VA – The Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities (PRCF) continues to take the safety and health of our patrons as a top priority. As the city moves into Phase 2 of reopening, PRCF will implement the following:

·        Rentals of picnic shelters will resume. Groups should be limited to 50% occupancy of the shelter space or 50 people, whichever is less.

·        Rentals of athletic fields for practice only. Interested groups will need to submit a plan of action to the department on how they intend to mitigate exposure, maintain at least ten feet between participants and instructors, and keep groups to 50 persons or less.

·        Limited parking will be available at Pony Pasture and Ancarrows Landing.

·        Parking lots at Texas Beach, Tredegar Green, 22^nd Street, and 42^nd Street will be open for use.

·        Entrance to the James River Park System at 21^st Street will reopen.

·        BMX Bike Trail at Gillies Creek Park will be open for use.

·        Tennis courts and pickleball courts will be open for use.

·        Playgrounds will be open for use.

·        Dog parks will be open for use.

·        Manchester Climbing Wall will be open for use.

·        Skate parks will be open for use.

·        Outdoor basketball courts will have the hoops reinstalled over the next two weeks.

·        Limited restrooms will be available.

There will be a gradual reopening of the tennis courts, basketball courts, and restrooms beginning on Friday, June 12, with an expectation of having all amenities available for use by Friday, June 19. We reiterate the importance of social distancing and avoidance of large gatherings and group activities.

With the additional amenities reopening, PRCF asks that social distancing standards be maintained at all times and that face coverings be worn if possible. Amenities that can be considered high touch areas (playgrounds, railings, fences, bathrooms, etc) cannot be cleaned on a consistent basis to mitigate potential exposure to the virus and should be used with caution.

The city and department understands the importance of the park system and recreational programs to our residents and will re-evaluate the need for closures, cancellations, and further openings as this unprecedented situation evolves.

Staff at PRCF’s Administrative Office will be available to assist residents via phone at 804-646-5733 or email at AskParkRec@richmondgov.com .

For more information about how the City of Richmond is responding to COVID-19, please visit www.richmondgov.com/covid19.

For more information about the department, follow PRCF on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.