Editor's note: This story is part of Southwest Michigan Second Wave's On the Ground Kalamazoo series and our ongoing COVID-19 coverage. If you have a story of how the community is responding to the pandemic please let us know here.

City of Kalamazoo parks will reopen for limited use starting Wednesday, May 6. For the health and safety of visitors, all hands-on equipment in city parks including playground equipment, exercise equipment, picnic pavilions, tables, and restroom facilities will remain closed.

“We encourage our community to use their parks in a safe and responsible manner,” said Sean Fletcher, Parks & Recreation Director for the City of Kalamazoo. “Please maintain the recommended 6-foot distance and follow all public health guidance to keep everyone safe.”

When visiting city parks, visitors must follow social distancing guidelines and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Large gatherings of people will not be permitted.

The City of Kalamazoo will continue to monitor the use of parks and may adjust policies or restrictions as necessary to protect public health.  

City of Kalamazoo parks have been closed since Tuesday, April 7 to protect public health and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. This step was taken after large gatherings were observed in City parks over the weekend. Residents are reminded that it is critically important to follow all guidelines provided by health officials, which include avoiding large gatherings.

To read Second Wave's most recent story about Kalamazoo City Parks please visit here.