June 16, 2020
Media Contact:
Scott Peterson, Director of Communications, Office of Public Information, 202-277-9412
ELLICOTT CITY, MD – To stay aligned with Governor Hogan’s Executive Order, Howard County Department of Recreation & Parks announced today the reopening of additional outdoor activities and facilities, including games, tournaments, and park pavilions.
“As we continue to reopen under the HoCo Rise framework more outdoor activities are available to our residents,” said County Executive Calvin Ball. “Recreation & Parks has done an incredible job preparing to safely offer as many activities as we can. We want residents to enjoy themselves, but also continue to follow health guidelines to wear face coverings and physically distance.”
Effective today, June 16th:
- Games, tournaments, and scrimmages may begin for sports teams and field permit holders. Although athletes will be back on the fields, only parents/guardians may watch (bleachers will not be available). Spectators will be not permitted.
- In addition, we have been advised by the Health Department to keep our water fountains turned off. Please make sure to bring water with you to the parks.
Effective Friday, June 19th:
- Starting June 19, park pavilion rentals may resume. The pavilion occupation number may not exceed 50% of the pavilion’s capacity.
Effective Thursday, July 16th:
- After July 15, weddings may resume at Recreation & Parks facilities at 50% capacity with restrictions.
"We are now allowing larger adult and youth gatherings and events to stay in line with the Amended Maryland Department of Health Directive and Order Regarding Community, Recreation, Leisure, Cultural and Sporting Gatherings Events Executive Order," said Director of Recreation & Parks Raul Delerme. "We encourage athletes, coaches and parents to maintain physical distance from one another on the sidelines and whenever possible and to follow CDC guidelines."
Everyone visiting Howard County Parks are encouraged to wear face coverings and continue practicing physical distancing. A list of all Howard County Recreation & Parks' closures and openings may be viewed at https://www.howardcountymd.gov/Departments/Recreation-and-Parks.