Out of an abundance of caution amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, public playgrounds in all Johnston City parks are closed effective immediately, until further notice. COVID-19 has been known to spread through hard surface contact. The Johnston Parks and Recreation Department does not have an effective way to fully sanitize the playground equipment to keep everyone safe. In addition to the playgrounds, all park restrooms remain closed and water fountains are turned off.
“To close our City’s playgrounds was a difficult decision for me,” said Mayor Paula Dierenfeld. “We want our residents to get outside, get some fresh air, and exercise. During these stressful times, it is important for the well-being of our resident’s mental and physical health. We became convinced taking action to close our playgrounds was necessary to protect Johnston’s families and our youth from further spread of the coronavirus.”
Johnston parks, recreational trails, water trails, and basketball courts remain open. Residents are encouraged to get outdoors and to utilize these facilities. When doing so, the City asks residents to follow the Centers for Disease Control guidelines and to practice social distancing and do not gather in groups of more than 10.
The City will not install fencing or caution tape around the playground equipment; residents and visitors are asked to do their part to keep their family, neighbors, and the Johnston community safe. Signage will be posted at each park to inform park users about the closure of the City’s playgrounds.
More information on the parks in Johnston can be found online at www.cityofjohnston.com/parks.
Visit www.cityofjohnston.com/COVID19 for additional information regarding changes to City business during the COVID-19 pandemic.