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Parks likely crowded with COVID keeping many closer to home for Memorial Day weekend

Rangers ready
Posted at 8:32 PM, May 22, 2020
and last updated 2020-05-23 14:35:31-04

COLORADO SPRINGS — Lingering COVID-19 concerns are motivating a lot of people to stay closer to home this Memorial Day weekend. Rangers with Colorado Springs Parks will be fully staffed because it could mean crowds at parks and open spaces. "We have an early shift and a late shift to provide full coverage for our parks,” said Park Ranger, Josh Joyner, “We're just trying to make sure our parks stay safe."

COVID-19 prevention measures remain in place at local parks. Playgrounds and picnic areas are off limits. Social distancing is required. Park visitors are advised to wear masks.

An on-going issue is people congregating in crowded open space parking lots. Law enforcement is working with park rangers on this issue. “Don’t park illegally. Don’t create an unsafe situation,” said Natashia Kerr with Colorado Springs Police Department. Locations like North Cheyenne Canon, Section 16, Stratton Open Space, and Blodgett Peak have had multiple instances of cars parked illegally. On narrow roads it is dangerous for other drivers. It also slows or blocks access for emergency vehicles.