BI Parks: Vehicle Access Closed & Summer Registration Postponed

(Image courtesy of Bainbridge Island Review)

VEHICLE ACCESS CLOSED TO PARKS

Governor Inslee’s Proclamation 20-25 highly encourages everyone to stay home, avoid gathering in groups, and adhere to proper social distancing guidelines.

Beginning March 24, the Park District will be closing vehicle access to all parks for the length of the proclamation. Additionally, all bathrooms, playgrounds, camping areas, dog parks, disc golf, tennis and pickleball courts, water drinking stations, and sports fields will be closed during this period for the safety of our users and staff. ALL PARKS WILL STILL BE ACCESSIBLE VIA WALKING OR BIKING.

The Park District will be extending its closure of all activities, facilities, and sports fields until April 27.

With the continued health crisis in our area, it is in the best interest of the agency and our community to remain closed. The recommendations from the State Governor’s office, Kitsap Public Health District, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suggest using the closure for proper social distancing and to give our staff and community time to remain healthy. The Park District is also doing its part to support all other public agencies and keep our workforce employed.

SUMMER REGISTRATION HAS BEEN POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
Refunds will be issued for all programs and events that have been canceled during this closure. All refunds will be issued as a credit to your household account. If you want a check mailed, or a refund to the credit card, please contact the Park District.

During the closure, the Park District will continue to keep our parks open to the general public. The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) has released a statement regarding Social Distancing in Public Parks and Trail, which supports the safe use of parks and open spaces.

National Recreation and Parks Association recommendations for the use of parks, trails, and open spaces:

Refrain from using parks or trails if you are exhibiting symptoms of an illness.
Follow CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene before and during the use of parks or trails.
Prepare for limited access to public restrooms or water fountains.
While on trails, warn other users of their presence and as they pass, and step aside to let others pass.
Follow CDC guidance on the recommended size of social gatherings, including outdoor picnicking, pick-up sports, and other group hangouts, and maintain proper physical distance at all times.
Observe CDC’s minimum recommended social distancing of 6 feet from other individuals at all times. If this is not possible, users should find an alternate location or depart that space.
Follow all local ordinances and guidelines for park and trail use.
Please continue to monitor the Park District website for future updates.