COLORADO SPRINGS — Sanitizing the great outdoors in Colorado Springs. "Sounds kind of silly." Gillian Rossi with Colorado Springs Parks is talking about what some might initially think about the task, but she assures there is need for some cleaning outside.
There is a new crew with Colorado Springs Parks. Members of the team are called Public Health Ambassadors. "Because we are seeing larger crowds in parks," said Rossi. Getting outdoors with space to roam is considered a safer activity during the pandemic. The issue is the added people showing up at Colorado Springs open space parks. The Public Health Ambassadors work to make the safer outdoor option, even more safe.
Open space parks are safe when people spread out and are distanced on trails. There is an issue at certain spots where people gather. "There's a lot of trail maps, handrails, picnic tables and park benches," said Rossi. The Public Health Ambassadors target those areas. "Sanitize high touch surfaces. There's more than you think in a park setting."
There are two teams mostly working at the four most popular open space parks in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods, Red Rocks Open Space, North Cheyenne Canon, and Palmer Park. The parks get a cleaning seven days a week.
The job is specific to COVID-19 prevention. Its purposed make funding possible through federal CARES Act dollars.
