The Ocala Recreation and Parks Department is lifting restrictions on parks within the city limits.
Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Friday that all state-issued restrictions on youth activities, including individual and non-organized sports, had been lifted.
Activities such as walking, jogging and bicycling in parks will continue to be allowed, and outdoor activities including basketball courts, volleyball courts, tennis courts and the Ocala Skate Park will have restrictions lifted under the new advisory. The six-feet physical distancing rule and face coverings are recommended in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention directions.
Lily’s Splash Pad, 2200 NW 17 Pl., and Citizens’ Circle Splash Pad, 160 E Fort King St., are now open with no restrictions. Hours of operation are sunrise to sunset daily.
Playgrounds will reopen within the parks; however, families should use caution and be aware of potential risks when using public equipment. Unsanitized playgrounds could contribute to the community spread of COVID-19. Allowing children to play is an individual and personal decision, however, the city does not have the resources to sanitize playground equipment. Adults are encouraged to do that on behalf of children before they play.
Recreation and senior centers will remain closed. Future decisions regarding the reopening of recreational facilities will be made contingent upon the ability to comply with social distancing recommendations along with new or emerging information regarding COVID-19 cases. A detailed list of closures may be found at www.ocalafl.org/recpark.
For more information, please contact the City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department at (352) 368-5517.