Lacey Closes Playgrounds, Other Activities As Coronavirus Hits NJ

LACEY, NJ — Lacey Recreation has closed all active-recreation areas of its parks as a precaution for the novel coronavirus. These include playgrounds, skate parks, basketball courts, hockey rinks, fitness areas, tennis and pickleball courts and more.

The department has also suspended all youth and adult sports programs until at least April 10.

Passive recreation in still allowed in the parks. This includes walking paths, trails and bike paths.

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At the county level, the visitor and nature centers at Jake's Branch County Park in Beachwood, Cattus Island County Park in Toms River, Wells Mills County Park in Ocean Township, and Cloverdale Farms County Park and Cedar Bridge Tavern in Barnegat Township have been closed to the public, but bathroom facilities will remain open.

Playgrounds, tennis courts and basketball courts at the county parks are shut down, as are children's programs, exercise, yoga and wellness programs, nature and outdoor events, weekend "drop-in" walks and feedings, van trips and hikes.

Officials have confirmed six cases of the virus in Ocean County as of Wednesday morning — none in Lacey. Governor Phil Murphy reported 89 new cases Tuesday in New Jersey, increasing the state total to 267. Read more: Gov. Murphy: NJ Malls Closing Due To Coronavirus, 89 New Cases

With reporting from Karen Wall/Patch

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