Belleville Reopening Parks After Gov. Murphy Gives Go-Ahead

BELLEVILLE, NJ — Belleville will be reopening its township parks with some restrictions after a go-ahead from Gov. Phil Murphy, officials announced Thursday.

On Wednesday, Murphy signed an executive order that allows for “passive recreation” such as running, hiking and biking in state and county parks, beginning at sunrise on Saturday, May 2. Now, counties and municipalities will be able to decide for themselves whether to keep local parks open or closed amid the coronavirus crisis. (Read the full order here)

Local officials will still have to abide by the state order, which stipulates that:

• Parking is limited to 50 percent of maximum capacity
• Picnics are banned
• Social distancing must be practiced, except with immediate family members, caretakers, household members, or romantic partners
• Organized or “contact” activities/sports and gatherings of any kind are banned

The order strongly recommends – but doesn’t require – that people wear a cloth face covering at the parks and forests where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.

READ MORE: NJ Coronavirus Updates (Here's What You Need To Know)

On Thursday, Belleville officials confirmed the township will be reopening its own municipal parks in line with Murphy’s order.

“During this time when theaters, salons and other businesses are closed, having access to outdoor activities is more crucial than ever,” Mayor Michael Melham said. “With warmer spring weather hopefully right around the corner, we are happy to re-open our parks.”

Melham stressed that residents must still exercise social distancing while they are passively recreating. And, as Murphy said earlier, Belleville strongly encourages its residents to wear face coverings when they come near others, he added.

“We must continue to observe social distancing and take other measures that will help mitigate the spread of COVID-19,” Melham said. “That said, this is a great first step toward returning to normal. So, take this opportunity to get outside and enjoy some fresh air.”

Melham said the township is also considering removing the covers from municipal parking meters and resuming street sweeping.

• See related article: Republican Lawmaker Wants NJ To Reopen Parks After Coronavirus Closure

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com

Don’t forget to visit the Patch Belleville-Nutley Facebook page. Learn more about posting announcements or events to your local Patch site. Sign up for Patch email newsletters.