Union County Parks To Reopen On Limited Basis Saturday

UNION COUNTY, NJ — Union County parks will partially reopen beginning at dawn on Saturday with new coronavirus restrictions following Gov. Phil Murphy's announcement on Tuesday.

Murphy said during his press conference he's reopening state parks and allowing golf courses to reopen with statewide restrictions. However, he left it up to the local counties' discretion whether they plan to reopen. Read More: Gov. Murphy To Reopen State Parks, Golf Courses In NJ Coronavirus

Union County's two golf courses will also open next week, after routine maintenance is conducted.

New Jersey Coronavirus Updates: Don't miss local and statewide announcements about novel coronavirus precautions. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.

"Union County parks will re-open under guidelines that are consistent with the statewide plan, which provides for residents to benefit from healthy outdoor activities while diligently observing precautions against spreading or contracting COVID-19," said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella.

Union County parks will open for limited and passive activities only, in accordance with statewide restrictions:

1. All group activities, including picnics and other gatherings remain prohibited.
2. Only individual activities are permitted, such as walking, jogging, bicycling, and fishing. For these activities, individuals may be accompanied by family members, caretakers, household members, or romantic partners.
3. Park visitors must stay on marked paths and observe signage for social distancing.
4. Park visitors are encouraged to wear masks.
5. The following facilities remain closed until further notice:
   1. Restrooms
   2. Picnic areas
   3. Athletic fields
   4. Playgrounds and exercise stations
   5. Trailside Nature & Science Center
   6. Warinanco Sports Center
   7. Watchung Stable
   8. Echo Lake and Warinanco dog parks

"As a reminder, the virus does not disappear outside,” Mirabella added. "Please be safe, and help save lives by observing the six-foot social distance guideline and other rules for visiting County parks during this time."

Park visitors should avoid congested areas and maintain a six-foot social distance when using pathways and trails.

Visitors should also follow coronavirus preventive measures including: wash hands frequently, do not touch face, cover coughs and sneezes with tissue or elbow, do not go out if sick, stay away from sick people, and use a face mask for additional protection.

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including guidance for the Union County Drive-Through Test Center at Kean University, visit ucnj.org/coronavirus-update.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here.