As the COVID-19 global pandemic is in the midst of its peak, the one question that remains in people’s minds is, “When will things go back to normal?” As the social distancing and self-quarantine rules mature, New Jersey residents are craving normalcy and their regular freedoms. But it’s not just the residents who wish for past freedoms. Mayors from all across Hudson County were in talks about reopening a few municipal parks.
Previously, all New Jersey parks had been closed by Governor Phil Murphy to ensure that all residents were practicing social distancing and staying safe from this easily spreadable virus. However, when Murphy made this announcement, he left the reopening of parks up to the respective local governments.
As of Monday, Jersey City, the second largest city in New Jersey, opened five parks to encourage residents to get some fresh air during this pandemic. However, face coverings, masks, gloves, and social-distancing techniques are still highly recommended and oftentimes enforced. The Mayor of Jersey City, Steven Fulop, plans to have a second phase of opening parks around the city.
Other mayors in Hudson County had previously announced that they planned to open parks soon. Mayor Ravi Bhalla, in particular, mentioned that many residents had inquired about the opening of parks in Hoboken. However, Bhalla was hesitant to open parks in Hoboken before other cities did in fear that it would attract more people to Hoboken, which has already become a COVID-19 hub, despite the administration’s best effort.
On April 29, the mayors collectively released a public statement expressing their concerns with reopening parks by stating, “We strongly believe that leaving all municipal parks closed in our respective cities is in the best interest of public health.” Therefore, they have decided to keep their parks closed until further notice.
This being said, the mayors did mention that opening the parks can have some potential benefits. If properly regulated, parks can boost the health of their residents. People being encouraged to go outside will improve their overall mental and physical well-being, given that they properly social distance.
The success of the opening of Jersey City parks may influence the other mayors of Hudson County’s future decisions about park openings. But, for now, residents are still encouraged to stay inside.
Be First to Comment