Park and recreation professionals will need to consider several key factors in managing athletic fields, including the need to implement continued mitigation strategies (physical distancing, limiting gatherings, supporting hygiene, etc.) and personal protection measures. Professionals should conduct a thorough risk assessment of each space, facility, program and event and put in place safety measures to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

Park and recreation professionals should adhere to all state and local public health guidance regarding athletic field operations, management and allowable programs or events. In addition, park and recreation professionals should ensure they address these factors:

• Community education and awareness. Ensure that patrons, including other sports organizations, are aware of public health and safety measures, such as mask regulations and spectator policies, personal protection and hygiene measures. Disseminate information across a variety of communication channels including signage on site, webpages, social media, public address (PA) announcements, etc.

• Cleaning and disinfection measures for frequently touched surfaces (door handles, sink handles, drinking fountains, restrooms, benches, bleachers) in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC’s) cleaning and disinfection guidance. Ensure the safe storage and use of disinfectants. With limited capacity, park and recreation professionals could consider identifying and training a volunteer coach or adult to ensure proper cleaning and disinfection.

• Ensuring water systems are safe to use. To avoid water-borne illnesses, ensure that all water systems are functioning properly after a prolonged shut down. Water fountains should be cleaned and sanitized, but encourage facility users to bring their own water.

• Encourage and monitor physical distancing in all areas of the facility. Implement environmental controls and modify layouts to support physical distancing and limit person-to-person contact by installing markers, signage, controlling traffic flow, etc.

• Following all CDC guidelines for concession stands, food preparation and sales and limit person-to-person interactions by implementing touch-free transactions at concessions stands and other entry points.

• Eliminating equipment sharing (tractors, mowers, field liners, storage lockers, etc.) as much as possible and sanitize all shared equipment after each use according to CDC cleaning and disinfection guidance.

• Ensuring that all facility users/renters are following the same protocols.

View CDC's Youth Sports guidance for more information on managing sports facilities.

Maintenance of Athletic Fields

COVID-19 may have impacted the ability of park and recreation professionals to properly maintain fields. Prior to reopening, fields should be assessed, and maintenance should be performed to ensure the health and safety of the public.

The Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA) provides some guidance in their Route to Recovery Guide on proper field maintenance when returning to play.

The CDC has released guidance for public beaches. 

Park and recreation professionals will need to consider several key factors in managing beaches and waterfronts. The primary factor to consider is how to implement and enforce additional mitigation strategies (physical distancing, mask measures, limiting gatherings, supporting hygiene, etc.). For example, a public beach or waterfront may provide space for physical distancing, but if physical distancing cannot be enforced or if the public is not adhering to physical distancing measures, beaches may contribute to an increased risk of COVID-19 transmission.

Park and recreation professionals should have plans in place to support the recommendations outlined below when opening and managing beaches.

Communications:

• Post clear signage outlining allowable activities, use and enforcement measures.

• Ensure that the public is aware and educated about the public health and safety measures that are in place including limits on certain activities and gatherings, encouraging good hygiene, staying home when sick and wearing masks.

• Have a plan in place to reinstate mitigation measures, including closures if the public is not adhering to recommendations or if transmission increases.

Physical Distancing and Limiting Gatherings:

• Have a plan in place for monitoring and enforcement of physical distancing, including limiting capacity on the beach. Strategies to monitor physical distancing and limit capacity may include:

   - Instituting a timed pass system

   - Limiting parking spaces

   - Limiting access points

   - Training and deploying beach ambassadors to educate beachgoers about physical distancing (lifeguards should not be responsible for monitoring physical distancing — they need to focus on water safety)

   - Stationing beach ambassadors at access points

   - Sharing public service announcements over speakers to remind people of physical distancing

   - Using tape or cones to mark 6-foot intervals in popular areas on boardwalks or at beach access points

Cleaning, Disinfection and Supporting Hygiene:

• Support hygiene and public health (e.g. ensure access to wash stations, clean restrooms, hand sanitizer, etc.).

• Frequently clean and disinfect restrooms and other commonly shared surfaces and spaces around the beach according to CDC guidance (permanent benches, railings, showers, etc.).

• Ensure all vendors are following cleaning and disinfection guidance.

Equipment Sharing:

• Discourage activities that involve equipment sharing outside of the same household.

• Ensure that any shared equipment, including rental items, are cleaned and disinfected between use (chair, umbrella rentals, kayaks, etc.).

Protecting Staff and Beach Ambassadors:

• Ensure that staff has the personal protective equipment necessary to do their job safely.

• Ensure that beach ambassadors are trained in handling difficult situations, know that they can avoid situations that make them uncomfortable, and know when to call for additional support.

Childcare Programs

CDC has issued guidance for childcare programs including Pre-K, Head Start programs, private and home childcare, and childcare centers operated by municipalities and community-based organizations. Topics covered include:

• General preparedness

• Guidance for childcare centers currently open

• Physical distancing strategies

• Parent drop-off and pick-up

• Screening children upon arrival

• Cleaning and disinfection

• Caring for infants and toddlers

• Healthy hand hygiene behavior

• Food preparation and meal service

• Vulnerable/high-risk groups

As park and recreation professionals manage childcare centers, agencies should consider opportunities to provide additional support to youth, families, and staff. Review the Planning for the Next Normal in Out-of-School Time blog post for guidance on understanding the mental, social, economic and physical impacts of COVID-19 on youth and staff, 

Additionally, if programs are held in indoor facilities, agencies should follow CDC's employer guidance for buildings which addresses air filtration and steps for reducing transmission in indoor settings.

Summer Camps

CDC has issued official guidance and considerations for summer camp programs. These considerations are outlined to help protect campers, staff and communities, and have been shown to be effective in reducing COVID-19 transmission. Agencies should still consult with local and state health officials to ensure all local protocols are followed.

Guiding principles shared by CDC outline that the risk of exposure and spread will increases the more people a camper or staff member interacts with and the longer that interaction occurs. The risk of COVID-19 spread increases in youth camp settings as follows:

• Lowest Risk: Small groups of campers and staff stay together all day, each day. Campers remain at least 6 feet apart and do not share objects. Outdoor activities are prioritized. All campers are from the local geographic area (e.g., city, town, county or community).

• More Risk: Campers mix between groups but remain at least 6 feet apart and do not share objects. Outdoor activities are prioritized. All campers are from the local geographic area (e.g., community, town, city or county).

• Even More Risk: Campers mix between groups and do not remain spaced apart. All campers are from the local geographic area (e.g., community, town, city or county).

• Highest Risk: Campers mix between groups and do not remain spaced apart. All campers are not from the local geographic area (e.g., community, town, city or county).

Camp administrators should consider implementing several strategies to encourage behaviors and maintain operations that reduce the risk of spread. Detailed guidance is provided by CDC. These strategies include:

Promoting healthy and protective measures

• Encouraging campers and staff to stay home when sick.

• Teaching and reinforcing proper hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.

• Modeling, teaching and reinforcing the use of masks.

• Ensuring adequate supplies are on hand.

• Posting reinforcing signs and messages.

Maintaining healthy environments

Engage in frequent cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched surfaces and shared equipment.

• Discourage the sharing of items and personal belongings.

• Ensure proper ventilation for indoor facilities.

• Ensure all water systems and features are safe to use after a prolonged shutdown.

• Modify layouts to encourage physical distancing.

• Install physical barriers for added protection.

• Limit the sharing of food and ensure food safety practices are in line with CDC recommendations.

Maintaining healthy operations

• Ensure protections for staff and campers who are at higher risk of severe illness.

• Be aware of local regulatory controls and policies.

• Identify small groups (cohorts) and keep them together to limit interaction outside of groups.

• Stagger scheduling, including arrival and drop-off times.

• Avoid gatherings, visitors and field trips where physical distancing cannot be maintained.

• Designate a COVID-19 point of contact.

• Establish and implement a communication plan.

• Have flexible time off policies for staff and back-up staffing plans.

• Train all staff on safety protocols, PPE, communications and chain of command.

• Recognize signs and symptoms and conduct health screenings of campers and staff.

• Reduce sharing of spaces between groups.

Prepare for when someone gets sick

• Advise sick individuals of home isolation criteria.

• Isolate and transport those who are sick.

• Clean and disinfect.

• Notify health officials and close contacts.

Additionally, the American Camp Association has developed a comprehensive camp operations field guide with more detailed information and NRPA has created a Summer Camp Reopening Decision tool to help support decision-making about reopening.

Download a Printable Summer Camp Reopening Decision Tool

 

Example Materials from Agencies 

• Pinellas County/St. Petersburg Florida: Letter to Staff re: Positive COVID-19 Case

• Pinellas County/St. Petersburg, Florida: Letter to Parents re: Postive COVID-19 Case

• St. Petersburg, Florida Parks and Recreation: COVID-19 Cleaning and Disinfection Recommendation

• Tampa, Florida: COVID-19 Waiver

• Tampa, Florida: COVID-19 Health and Temperature Screening Form

• Tampa Florida: COVID-19 2020 Summer Camp Parent Guide

• San Francisco, California Emergency Child and Youth Care Program

 

 

Other resources available:

• CDC Summer Camp Guidance

• CDC Resources for Schools, Childcare and Youth Sports

  - Childcare during the COVID-19 Pandemic

        ○ Decision Tool

  - Youth Programs and Camps during the COVID-19 Pandemic

        ○ Decision Tool

  - Youth Sports Programs during the COVID-19 Pandemic

• American Camp Association Camp Operations Guide

• American Camp Association Resource Center

• Association of Camp Nurses Resource Center

• Afterschool Alliance: Blueprint for How Afterschool Programs and Community Partners Can Help

• Planning for the Next Normal in Out-of-School Time Programs Blog

NRPA will provide more guidance as available. Check this page regularly for updates.

In many communities, park and recreation professionals are responsible for managing community events and gatherings, including holiday and seasonal celebrations. This year, these events and celebrations many need to be modified, adapted, and in some cases, postponed or cancelled, as these events and mass gatherings can contribute to the spread of COVID-19. When planning community events and celebrations, park and recreation professionals should adhere to all state and local public health guidance and conduct a thorough risk assessment and planning prior to moving forward. CDC has provided considerations for events and gatherings and guidance for holiday celebrations that can help decision makers plan in a safe and thoughtful manner.

Considerations for Events and Gatherings

Park and recreation professionals, in collaboration with local public health and government officials, should make informed decisions regarding hosting and making adjustments to community events and gatherings. CDC has outlined key guiding principles that decision makers should keep top of mind:

• The more people an individual interacts with at a gathering and the longer that interaction lasts, the higher the potential risk of becoming infected with COVID-19 and COVID-19 spreading.

• The higher the level of community transmission in the area that a gathering is being held, the higher the risk of COVID-19 spreading during a gathering.

• The size of an event or gathering should be determined based on state, local, territorial or tribal safety laws and regulations

The risk of COVID-19 spread at events and gatherings increases as follows:

Lowest Risk: Virtual only activities and gatherings.

More Risk: Smaller outdoor and in-person gatherings in which individuals from different households remain physically distanced, wear masks, don’t share objects and come from the same local area.

Higher Risk: Medium-sized, in-person gatherings that are adapted to allow individuals to remain physically distanced, with attendees coming from outside the local area.

Highest Risk: Large, in-person gatherings where it is difficult to remain physically distanced and attendees travel from outside the local area.

Holiday Celebrations

The CDC’s holiday celebrations guidance outlines key considerations that decision makers, individuals, families and friends should make as they plan for celebrations. The guidance includes sections on assessing the risk of virus spread during celebrations, who should avoid in-person celebrations, general considerations, and what to do prior to the celebration, during the celebration and after the celebration. 

These key considerations and guiding principles can be used to help inform decisions about hosting holiday celebrations:

1. Levels of COVID-19 across the community — higher levels of COVID-19 cases and community spread in the gathering location increase the risk of spread among attendees. *Information on levels of community spread can be found on your local health department website.
2. The location of the gathering — indoor gatherings generally pose greater risk than outdoor gatherings and indoor gatherings with poor air ventilation pose more risk. *CDC does provide tips for increasing air ventilation in indoor settings.
3. The duration of the gathering — the longer a gathering lasts, the greater the risk of spread.
4. The number of people at a gathering — gatherings with more people pose greater risks.
5. The location attendees are traveling from to attend the gathering — people coming from locations with higher levels of community spread pose a greater risk for transmission at a gathering.
6. The behaviors of attendees prior to a gathering — gatherings with attendees who are not following CDC guidance on physical distancing, wearing masks, washing hands and other protective measures, pose a greater risk for spread at a gathering.
7. The behavior of attendees during a gathering — gatherings where attendees are not following CDC guidance on physical distancing, wearing masks, washing hands and other protective measures, pose a greater risk for spread at a gathering.

Based on these guiding principles, the level of risk associated with fall activities and events that park and recreation professionals may host are outlined below:

Lowest Risk: Sponsoring events and activities that can be done at home, virtually, or without direct interaction with those outside your household. Hosting holiday decorating contests Hosting holiday scavenger hunts Hosting virtual costume contests, concerts, cooking lessons or art projects Hosting a drive-in movie night Hosting drive-thru parades Hosting recipe contests

Moderate Risk: Hosting small group, outdoor gatherings, with safety precautions in place including physical distancing, wearing masks, washing hands, adjusting environmental controls, etc. Hosting outdoor art projects Sponsoring agri-tourism activities Hosting grab-and-go events

Highest Risk: Traditional events and celebrations that do not have safety precautions in place, are held indoors, and bring together large groups of people from different households and communities. Hosting indoor activities with large groups Hosting large fall festivals and running events Hosting activities that bring together people from different households Hosting indoor large group meals

Park and recreation professionals should adhere to all state and local public health guidance regarding dog parks and their operations and management. In addition, park and recreation professionals should address these factors to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission:

• Physical distancing, mask wearing, limiting capacity and group congregating, and creating monitoring practices.

• Installing signage and using a variety of communications channels to educate community about dog park user measures — proper hygiene, mask policies, physical distancing, etc.

• Implementing environmental controls — using markers to mark off 6 feet of distance, rearranging equipment, controlling directional traffic, etc.

• Ensuring water systems are safe to use. To avoid water-borne illnesses, ensure that all water systems are functioning properly after a prolonged shut down. Water fountains should be cleaned and sanitized, but encourage facility users to bring their own water.

• Cleaning and disinfection measures that may be needed for frequently touched surfaces.

CDC has issued guidance for people who have animals including risk of people spreading COVID-19 to animals and risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people.

Park and recreation professionals will need to consider several key factors while operating farmers markets. The primary factor to consider is how to support the health and safety of the public, staff and vendors — including the need to implement and enforce personal protection measures and additional mitigation strategies (physical distancing, limiting gatherings, supporting hygiene, etc.). Professionals should conduct a thorough risk assessment of each space, facility, program and event, while ensuring that farmers markets are accessible and provide opportunities for all people to equitably access healthy foods.

The Farmers Market Coalition, a major information center for farmers markets and market advocacy, has scaled up a COVID-19 response page to provide best practices, guidance, educational opportunities, and recommendations for safe market operations, signage, sample reopening plans from markets across the country and more. In general, park and recreation professionals that manage farmers markets should create a plan that addresses the following considerations prior to reopening:

• Ensure that patrons are aware of public health and safety measures, including personal protection and hygiene measures. Disseminate information across a variety of communication channels including signage, webpages, social media, etc.

• Limit person-to-person interactions by implementing touch-free transactions.

• Support and monitor physical distancing in all areas of the market.

• Implement environmental controls, such as redesigning the market layout, installing plexiglass barriers, directional signage, markers to mark 6 feet of distance, etc. to support physical distancing and limit person-to-person contact.

• Encourage pre-ordering from vendors as much as possible.

• Eliminate equipment sharing as much as possible and sanitize all shared equipment after each use according to CDC cleaning and disinfection guidance (tables, chairs, tents, etc.).

• Limit capacity of the market.

• Ensure restrooms and other commonly touched surfaces are properly cleaned and disinfected frequently according to CDC guidance.

• Eliminate demonstrations and taste testing to decrease opportunities for cross-contamination.

• Encourage proper hygiene by providing hand sanitizer and wash stations.

For more detailed guidance and sample plans, refer to the Farmers Market Coalition website.

Park and recreation professionals will need to consider several key factors in managing golf courses. The primary factor to consider is how to implement mitigation strategies (physical distancing, mask measures, limiting gatherings, supporting hygiene, etc.). Professionals should consider these additional factors to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission:

• Ensure that patrons are aware of public health and safety measures, including physical distancing, mask measures, personal protection and hygiene measures. Disseminate information across a variety of communication channels including signage, webpages, social media, etc.

• Limit person-to-person interactions by implementing touch-free transactions including making reservations online (no walk-up tee times), paying course fees, purchasing equipment or food, etc.

• Monitor and enforce physical distancing in all areas of the facility — driving range, course, practice greens, in pro shop, etc. Implement environmental controls to support physical distancing and limit person-to-person contact.

• Encourage walking the course as much as possible.

• Eliminate equipment sharing as much as possible and sanitize all shared equipment after each use according to CDC cleaning and disinfection guidance (carts, clubs, etc.).

• Stagger tee times to allow for enhanced cleaning and disinfection between players and limit practice facility usage if necessary.

• Establish a policy for group play and monitor and enforce policy.

• Ensure restrooms and other commonly touched surfaces are properly cleaned and disinfected frequently according to CDC guidance.

• Follow CDC guidance for all food and beverage service.

• Remove sand containers, coolers, pencils, scorecards, movable flagsticks, coolers, and other items from carts and the course that could be subject to frequent contact.

• Ensure you have contact information from all players.

• Modify pro shop to support physical distancing and remove items that could be subject to frequent touching. Install 6-foot markers in pro shop and sneeze guards, control traffic flow, ensure proper ventilation and air flow, etc.

Find more detailed guidance from the National Golf Owners Association or a sample state plan from Washington.

COVID-19 has been shown to spread in indoor facilities including gyms, fitness centers, studios and recreation centers. Park and recreation professionals should adhere to all state and local public health guidance regarding indoor recreation and aquatic center operations and management. In addition, park and recreation professionals should address these factors to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19:

• Cleaning and disinfection measures for all parts of facility (restrooms, pool furniture, front desk, concessions, doorknobs, locker rooms, faucets/sinks, etc.).

• Physical distancing, mask measures, limiting equipment sharing, limiting capacity and group sizes in programs and creating monitoring practices and policies.

• Implementing environmental controls — installing sneeze guards and creating barriers between staff and older adults, removal of furniture, using markers to mark off 6 feet of distance, rearranging equipment, blocking off equipment, etc.

• Creating a plan for conducting health screenings of staff and users.

• Installing signage and using a variety of communications channels to educate community about facility user measures — proper hygiene, wearing masks, health screenings, etc.

• Staff safety measures — establish policies for safe behavioral practices (PPE, physical distancing, hand washing, masks, health screenings, protocols on first aid and CPR, etc).

• Ensuring proper ventilation — ensure that ventilation systems in your facility operate properly and increase circulation of outdoor air as much as possible by opening windows and doors (if it doesn't pose a safety or health risk), and using fans. 

• Ensuring water systems are safe to use — To avoid water-borne illnesses, ensure that all water systems are functioning properly after a prolonged shut down. Water fountains should be cleaned and sanitized, but encourage facility users to bring their own water.

• Having a plan for reverting to previous phases of recovery in the event of increased community spread.

CDC has released recommendations for safely using gyms and fitness centers. Park and recreation professionals should implement strategies that support the ability of users to follow this guidance that includes:

• Options for online reservations and check-in systems.

• Additional prevention practices, such as new plexiglass barriers, staff wearing masks, and closing of shared locker room space.

• Utilize outdoor space or options for virtual classes and training sessions as much as possible.

• Limit attendance at indoor group training sessions. Encourage distance between participants and the use of cloth face coverings, if they do not interfere with the activity. If you are indoors, open windows to increase airflow throughout the space.

• Ensure weight rooms, group fitness studios, pools and saunas, courts and fields, walking/running tracks, locker rooms, check-in areas, parking lots and routes of entry and exit are set up in a way that allow users to maintain 6 feet of distance between each other.

• Ensure equipment is clean and disinfected. In addition to regularly sanitizing machines and equipment, provide and promote the use of disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer for users.

• Discourage the use of shared items that cannot be cleaned, sanitized or disinfected between use, such as resistance bands and weightlifting belts.

• Discourage handshakes, high-fives, elbow bumps, or touching others because close contact increases the risk of acquiring COVID-19.

Other resources available:

• CDC’s guidance on using fitness centers

• International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) COVID-19 Resource Center

• Tennessee Pledge Exercise Facilities Guidelines

• Arizona Guidance for Gyms and Fitness Providers

• United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee Return to Training Considerations Post-COVID-19

 

Park and recreation professionals will need to consider several key factors in managing outdoor courts. The primary factor to consider is how to implement and enforce mitigation strategies (physical distancing, mask measures, limiting gatherings, supporting hygiene, etc.). For example, an outdoor basketball court may provide space for physical distancing and small group activities, but if physical distancing cannot be monitored and park users are not adhering to physical distancing measures, outdoor courts may increase the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

Professionals should address these factors to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission:

• Community education and awareness. Ensure that patrons are aware of public health and safety measures, including mask regulations and spectator policies, personal protection and hygiene measures. Disseminate information across a variety of communication channels including signage on site, webpages, social media, PA announcements, etc.

• Cleaning and disinfection measures for frequently touched surfaces (door handles, sink handles, drinking fountains, restrooms, benches, bleachers) in accordance with CDC’s cleaning and disinfection guidance. Ensure the safe storage and use of disinfectants. 

• Ensuring water systems are safe to use. To avoid water-borne illnesses, ensure that all water systems are functioning properly after a prolonged shut down. Water fountains should be cleaned and sanitized, but encourage park users to bring their own water.

• Encourage and monitor physical distancing. Implement environmental controls and modify layouts to support physical distancing and limit person-to-person contact by installing markers, signage, controlling traffic flow, etc.

• Eliminating equipment sharing as much as possible and sanitize all shared equipment after each use according to CDC cleaning and disinfection guidance.

View CDC's Youth Sports guidance for more information about the safe return to play.

CDC issued guidance for park administrators managing outdoor restrooms.

If possible, restrooms should remain open if a park remains open for public visitation. If restrooms will be closed, notify visitors ahead of time so they can prepare appropriately. Ensure that open restrooms are:

• Operational with functional toilets.

• Cleaned and disinfected regularly, particularly high-touch surfaces such as faucets, toilets, doorknobs and light switches. Clean and disinfect restrooms daily or more often if possible. The EPA-registered household disinfectants listed here are recommended. Ensure safe and correct application of disinfectants and keep products away from children.

• Regularly stocked with supplies for handwashing, including soap and materials for drying hands or hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.

Oftentimes, restroom facilities without running water, such as portable toilets and vault toilets, are not stocked with hand hygiene products. Agencies can rent stand-alone handwashing and sanitizing stations or encourage visitors to be prepared to bring their own hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol for use in these facilities.

Park and recreation professionals should adhere to all state and local public health guidance regarding park and trail operations and necessary mitigation measures (physical distancing, mask measures, limiting gatherings, supporting hygiene, etc.). Park and recreation professionals should address these factors to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission:

• Build community education and awareness — ensure that patrons, including other sports organizations, are aware of public health and safety measures, such as personal protection and hygiene measures. Disseminate information across a variety of communication channels including signage on site, webpages, social media, PA announcements, press releases/media relations, etc.
• Perform cleaning and disinfecting measures for frequently touched surfaces (door handles, sink handles, drinking fountains, restrooms, benches, bleachers) in accordance with the CDC's cleaning and disinfection guidance. Ensure the safe storage and use of disinfectants. With limited capacity, park and recreation professionals could consider identifying and training a volunteer coach or adult to ensure proper cleaning and disinfection.
• Establish safety protocols for removing garbage bags or disposing trash.
• Monitor and encourage physical distancing in all areas of the facility. Implement environmental controls and modify layouts to support physical distancing and limit person-to-person contact including installing markers and signage, controlling traffic flow, etc.
• Follow all CDC guidelines for concession stands, food preparation and sales and limit person-to-person interactions by implementing touch-free transactions at concessions stands and other entry points.
• Eliminate equipment sharing (tractors, mowers, field liners, storage lockers, etc.) as much as possible and sanitize all shared equipment after each use according to CDC cleaning and disinfection guidance.
• Ensure that all facility users/renters are following the same protocols.

CDC has provided guidance on management of parks, trails and open spaces:

The higher the level of community transmission, the higher the risk of the virus that causes COVID-19 spreading during park operations. In some communities, it may not be possible for the public to safely visit parks, trails and open spaces due to the level of community transmission; this, combined with areas conducive to larger numbers of people congregating, increases individual risk. If community transmission does not prohibit the public from visiting a park, trail or open space, park administrators are encouraged to consider the levels of risk below when operating parks, trails and open spaces. The risk of the virus that causes COVID-19 spreading at parks, trails and open spaces is ranked as follows, from lowest to highest:

Lowest Risk:

• Parks and trails allow for physical distancing of at least 6 feet between individuals or household groups.

• Staff and visitors stay at least 6 feet away from people they don’t live with.

• Tourist attractions (e.g., monuments) are open only without overcrowding and allow for social distancing of at least 6 feet between individuals or household groups.

• All staff and visitors wear masks, especially when other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.

• Park staff clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces (e.g., doorknobs or handrails) and shared objects between uses or on a frequent schedule with EPA-approved products.

Moderate Risk:

• Parks and trails are open with partial modifications to allow for physical distancing of at least 6 feet between individuals or household groups in some areas.

• Tourist attractions (e.g., monuments) are open with partial modifications and messaging to avoid overcrowding and to allow for social distancing of at least 6 feet between individuals or household groups.

• Some staff and/or visitors wear masks.

• Park staff clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and shared objects more than once per day, but less frequently than between each use with EPA-approved products.

Highest Risk:

• Parks and trails are open at full capacity with no modifications to allow for physical distancing of at least 6 feet between individuals or household groups.

• Staff and visitors from different areas* with varying levels of community transmission are less than 6 feet away. Tourist attractions (e.g., monuments) are open at full capacity with no modifications or messaging to avoid overcrowding or allow for social distancing.

• No masks are worn.

• Park staff clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and shared objects once per day and may or may not use EPA-approved products.

*“Different area” could be another town, city or county.

Park and recreation professionals should also refer to CDC and NRPA’s guidance as it pertains to the management and operations of parks, trails, green spaces and other facilities, infrastructure and programs:

• Post information to encourage everyday preventative activities

• Ensure physical distancing

• Maintain restrooms

• Postpone, cancel or adapt large events

• Protect staff

• Consider the appropriate timing for resuming programming

 

Playgrounds and Play Structures

When reopening playgrounds, play structures and similar spaces, park and recreation professionals should adhere to all state and local public health and government guidance and work collaboratively with local public health officials to safely reopen these spaces. Professionals should conduct a thorough risk assessment of all spaces and infrastructure prior to reopening to ensure they are aware of all potential COVID-19-related risks. Remember that guidance continues to evolve as we learn more about the virus. Monitor guidance frequently to account for any changes based on the latest trusted research and data available.

Reopening Guidance for Playgrounds and Similar Park Infrastructure

The KABOOM! Playground Reopening Task Force comprised of representatives from public health, community development and the park and recreation profession, including NRPA, has created an actionable resource for playground owners/operators as they plan for safe reopening. Park and recreation professionals should have a detailed plan in place to support the recommendations outlined below.

1. Prioritize Equity in Reopening Playgrounds

• If a system has multiple playgrounds, ensure that playgrounds in all neighborhoods have appropriate signage, hand cleaning amenities, and other safety measures. Public agency resources should give first priority to playgrounds in communities that:

   - Have had the highest COVID-19 case counts. To review case counts by city or county, CDC has links to state and local health departments on their website here, and Johns Hopkins has a county level map here. 

   - Have the fewest resources available to implement these actions.

• Consult community members about their needs in order to ensure healthful and safe use of playgrounds. Recommendations include collecting community feedback through virtual community meetings, social media, online surveys and physical mailings to homes, as well as collaborating with networks of nonprofits active in your neighborhood.

*Review NRPA’s Centering Health Equity page for more strategies to prioritize equity.

 

2. Prepare the Playground Equipment and Space

• Set reasonable, responsible limits on usage: Determine the number of users who can share the playground while maintaining a physical distance of six feet from one another. These limits should be clearly shared with signage and outreach to playground users, and self-enforced by adults bringing kids to the playground. Judgments on user capacity should factor in the design and layout of the playground structure. Here are two starting approaches:

   - Reduce capacity by two-thirds: Take the total established playground capacity and multiply by 0.33, so that the total capacity is one third of the previous norm for the playground footprint.

   - Ensure users can maintain 6 feet of physical distance: Take the total square footage of the playground footprint and divide by 113 square feet per user to reach a user number that allows each person on the playground to have a 6’ radius around them. As an example, this would mean that a 2500 square foot playground would accommodate a maximum of 22 users.

• Clean playground equipment using soap and water before reopening. Follow CDC guidance to “continue existing cleaning and hygiene practices for outdoor areas”.

   - NRPA also recommends consulting with playground manufacturer to determine what cleaning products are safe to use on playground equipment.

   - If using disinfectant to clean high-touch areas like handrails, ensure any disinfectant has dried before kids play on the equipment. Ensure cleaning and disinfectant supplies is stored away from kids.

• Ensure safety surfacing is maintained and all equipment is compliant with safety standards described by ASTM F-1487.¹

 

3. Enable Safe Playground Use

Practice safe behavior at the playground:

• Post accessible and visible playground signage, in English and other dominant languages of playground users, geared toward both kids and adults reminding users to:

   - Stay home if they are feeling sick.

   - Wash or sanitize hands frequently.

   - Keep physical distance from other users outside of their household.

   - Come back to play another time if there are more people at the playground than the posted capacity.

   - Cover coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue or cough and sneeze into the elbow rather than hands and throw tissues away after use; wash or sanitize hands after coughing or sneezing. 

   - Wear cloth face coverings or masks (except children under age two). *More information on cloth face coverings below.

• Provide hand washing or hand sanitizing resources for playground users near the playground footprint. Where this is not possible, encourage playground users to bring their own personal hand sanitizer for use during and after playing.

• Train staff and volunteers to support safe and healthy behaviors by playground users and to make community members feel welcome. Where feasible, periodic site visits by staff and volunteers to encourage safe use is recommended.

• Engage the community of playground users by sharing written guidelines for safe use with caregivers and kids directly and with the network of educators, kid-focused local nonprofits and health professionals so that playground users can take good care of themselves in accordance with information shared. Utilize the communications methods that usually connect best with playground users, which may include website posts, social media sharing, community meetings and posting on community bulletin boards. Key guidance to share with the community of playground users includes:

1. Avoid the playground if any member of the household is sick.

2. Stay proactive: Wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and bring hand sanitizer to the playground for use when it is not possible to wash hands. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.

3. Stay informed: With the information provided either by your local public health department or physician, assess the risks that you and those persons in your care are encountering when accessing a public playspace.

4. Stay physically distant: ensure six feet of distance between playground users who are not from the same household.

5. Guidance for wearing cloth face coverings:

   - Ensure that adults and children older than two wear cloth face coverings when visiting the playground.

   - Caregivers and/or playground staff should encourage all children to wear their cloth face coverings properly, and that there are no hanging strings or loops that could catch on equipment.

   - Caregivers and/or playground staff should monitor how masks are being worn. If, because children are unable, or do not want to wear cloth face coverings, or if play is vigorous and the cloth face covering is moving around the face or neck, it would be prudent not to require a child or children to wear the cloth face covering(s). If this is the case, though, it is very important that physical distancing (6-feet or more) be maintained among children using equipment.    

6. Stay safe together: Discuss your thoughts with your kids and have them help you develop a “safe way to play” plan.

 

Additional Recommendations and Strategies for Safe Reopening

NRPA has compiled additional recommendations and strategies for park and recreation professionals as they begin to reopen playgrounds and similar park infrastructure safely and equitably.

Develop and Implement a Comprehensive Communications Strategy

Having a well-developed communications plan that provides timely, clear, accessible and culturally relevant information to staff, the public and others regarding reopening plans and procedures is imperative to the safe and efficient reinstatement of operations. Consider how best to:

• Use a variety of channels and networks and be consistent in relaying messaging to ensure that the public is aware and educated about the public health and safety measures that are in place.

• Establish a consistent communication loop with playground users to ensure that playground users can provide feedback to park staff and share concerns throughout the reopening process.

• Prepare for reinstating mitigation measures, including closures of playgrounds, if the public is not adhering to recommendations and/or if rates of transmission increase.

Establish Protocols to Support Physical Distancing and Limit Gatherings

Physical distancing is paramount to reducing the risk of spread. Have a plan in place to support and monitor physical distancing, including limiting capacity on the playground and installing signage to encourage physical distancing. Additional strategies to support and monitor physical distancing and limit gatherings may include:

• Stationing staff or park ambassadors on site or having staff/ambassadors frequently monitor playgrounds to encourage proper use and educate playground users on public health measures. Ensure staff and ambassadors are trained appropriately (see below).

• Having staff collect and track observational data on playground use to identify specific areas within the park system where additional support, resources, outreach and monitoring may be needed.

• Limiting parking spaces, access points or reducing hours of operation.

• Using tape, cones or other markers to mark 6 foot intervals in popular areas of the playground to encourage physical distancing and provide visual cues of what 6 feet looks like.

Instate Extra Measures to Support Hygiene

Support hygiene and public health by providing access to wash stations, clean restrooms, and hand sanitizing stations near the playground footprint.

• Prioritize the reopening of restrooms near playgrounds. Restrooms should be stocked with hand soap and running water and cleaned and disinfected in accordance with CDC guidance to encourage healthy hygiene.

• If temporary restrooms are located near the playground site, ensure that temporary restrooms are routinely cleaned and disinfected in accordance with CDC guidance.

• If there are no restrooms near the playground site, consider installing hand sanitizing stations or wash stations.

Protect Staff and Park Ambassadors

If staff or park ambassadors will be used at playground sites to monitor use, ensure that staff have the equipment necessary to do their job safely:

• Ensure that staff who will be performing cleaning and disinfecting at playground sites in accordance with CDC guidance are properly trained and have the equipment necessary to do their job safely.

• Ensure that staff and ambassadors are trained on handling difficult situations and de-escalation. Make sure they know that they can avoid situations that make them uncomfortable and when to call for additional support.

• Ensure that staff and ambassadors are representative of the community being served and trained on implicit bias.

 IPEMA and NRPA Infographics for Playgroud User Guidance

The International Play Equipment Manufacturers Association (IPEMA) and NRPA have worked together to a create a set of signage tools for playgrounds, playspaces, and other outdoor equipment to encourage healthy and safe use of these spaces. These tools can be downloaded, printed and posted in your park and recreation facilities as needed.

Click on image below to open full-size infographic in new window for download. 

 

Additional Resources:

• CDC Park Administrator Guidance

• CDC Park User Guidance

• KABOOM! COVID-19 Playground Closure Resource and Playground Reopening Guidance

• International Play Equipment Manufacturers Association (IPEMA) Voice of Play Resource Center

 

Outdoor Exercise Equipment

When reopening outdoor exercise equipment, park and recreation professionals can refer to NRPA’s playground reopening guidance.

NRPA will provide more guidance as available. Check this page regularly for updates.

Park and recreation professionals will need to consider several key factors in managing senior centers, including the need to implement continued mitigation strategies for populations that are high-risk (physical distancing, limiting gatherings, supporting hygiene, etc.).

Park and recreation professionals should adhere to all state and local public health guidance regarding senior center operations, management and allowable programs or events. In addition, park and recreation professionals should address these factors to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19:

• Cleaning and disinfection measures for all parts of facility (restrooms, pool furniture, front desk, concessions, doorknobs, locker rooms, faucets/sinks, etc.).

• Physical distancing, mask measures, limiting equipment sharing, limiting capacity and group sizes in programs and creating monitoring practices and policies.

• Implementing environmental controls — installing sneeze guards and creating barriers between staff and older adults, removal of furniture, using markers to mark off 6 feet of distance, rearranging equipment, blocking off equipment, etc.

• Creating a plan for conducting health screenings of staff and users.

• Installing signage and using a variety of communications channels to educate community about facility user measures — proper hygiene, wearing masks, health screenings, etc.

• Staff safety measures — establish policies for safe behavioral practices (PPE, physical distancing, hand washing, masks, health screenings, protocols on first aid and CPR, etc).

• Ensuring proper ventilation - ensure that ventilation systems in your facility operate properly and increase circulation of outdoor air as much as possible by opening windows and doors (if it doesn't pose a safety or health risk), and using fans. 

• Ensuring water systems are safe to use - To avoid water-borne illnesses, ensure that all water systems are functioning properly after a prolonged shut down. Water fountains should be cleaned and sanitized, but encourage facility users to bring their own water.

• Having a plan for reverting to previous phases of recovery in the event of increased community spread.

Other Resources Available:

• National Council on Aging Resource Center

• Generations United COVID-19 Resource Center

• CDC’s Older Adults Resource Center

• AARP

Engagement in outdoor recreation, including participation in drop-in and organized sports programs, plays a significant role in supporting physical and mental health. In communities where spread has slowed, CDC has outlined considerations for sports programs to resume while protecting players, families and communities and maintaining low levels of transmission. Agencies should still consult with and adhere to local and state health officials guidance to determine if and how to put into place these considerations.

Guiding principles shared by CDC outlines that the risk of exposure and spread is influenced by several factors. When assessing the risk of spread in your sport, consider: 

• Community levels of COVID-19

• Physical closeness of players

• Level of intensity of activity

• Length of time that players are close to each other or staff

• Setting of the sporting event or activity

• Amount of necessary touching of shared equipment and gear

• Ability to engage in physical distancing while not actively engaged in play

• Age of the player

• Players at higher risk of developing severe illness

• Size of the team

• Nonessential visitor, spectators, volunteers

• Travel outside of the local community

• Behavior of the athletes off the field

Therefore, risk can be different depending on the type of activity and increases in youth sports settings as follows:

• Lowest Risk: Performing skill-building drills or conditioning at home, alone or with family members
• Increasing Risk: Team-based practice
• More Risk: Within-team competition
• Even More Risk: Full competition between teams from the same local geographic area
• Highest Risk: Full competition between teams from different geographic areas

Agencies should assess the risk of each sports program examining the physical closeness of players, the length of time players are close to each other, the necessary sharing of equipment, the ability to physically distance, age of the players (older youth may be able to follow physical distancing and other protective actions more than younger age groups), players who may be at high risk, the size of the team, nonessential spectators, and travel outside the community. Additionally, sports programs should promote behaviors that reduce spread, including mask wearing. Agencies should also maintain healthy environments and operations and prepare for when someone gets sick.

The Aspen Institute’s Project Play initiative has created a detailed risk assessment tool outlining several common sports and activities, along with how risk could be minimized in each activity. This tool can be used by park and recreation professionals as they determine types of activities and sports that would be allowable, with modifications, in each phase. A few examples are provided below.

*It is important for all participants in activities at any phase to continue to follow CDC recommendations on cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, including sports equipment, hygiene guidance, wearing face coverings, physical distancing (for spectators as well), covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and staying home when sick.

 

Activity	Phase 1	Phase 2	Phase 3
Basketball	Single/individual use — shooting hoops by oneself or with household	Small group use — shooting hoops with non-household members limiting the sharing of equipment	Group use — pick up or organized game play with non-household members and shared equipment
Tennis	Single/individual use — practicing skills as an individual or playing with member of household	Small group use — playing a match with a non-household member limiting the sharing of equipment	Playing a match with non-household members with no efforts to minimize equipment sharing
Baseball/Softball	Single/individual use — practicing skills alone or with household members	Small group use — training or practicing skills with a non-household member limiting the sharing of equipment	Group use — pick up or organized game play with non-household members and shared equipment
Soccer	Single/individual use — practicing skills along or with household members	Small group use — training or practicing skills with a non-household member limiting the sharing of equipment	Group use — pick up or organized game play with non-household members and shared equipment

 

While some sports programs may be put on hold until there is no widespread community transmission, there are lots of opportunities to engage in recreational activities that are low risk, including practicing yoga, tai chi or meditation, water sports like kayaking and paddle boarding, roller blading or roller skating, dancing, jumping rope, fishing, camping, playing yard games or participating in virtual physical activity programs.

Other resources available:

• CDC’s Guidance on Sports Programs

• The Aspen Institute’s Project Play Resource Center

• The Aspen Institute’s Project Play Return to Play Risk Assessment

This risk assessment resource is designed to help people of all ages asses risk in a variety of common sport and recreation activities, including individual sports and team sports. The tool offers guidance on how sports can be restructured or modified to minimize the risk of transmission.

• United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee — Sports Event Planning Considerations Post-COVID-19

These recommendations may serve as a tool to spark thoughtful deliberation for event planners to create their own unique event plan specific to their sport and situation.

• United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee — Return to Training Considerations Post-COVID-19

These recommendations may serve as a tool to spark thoughtful deliberation for athletes, coaches and staff who will create training plans specific to their sport and situation.

United States Tennis Association (USTA) Resources:

• Playing Tennis Safely (Players)

• Playing Tennis Safely (Facilities)

• Playing Tennis Safely Flyer

The Tennis Industry United webpage has been created for our partners and providers and includes resources, webinar opportunities, and daily blog post. 

USA Softball Resources

• Back to the Ballpark Recommendations

US Soccer Foundation (USSF) Resources:

• USSF Return to Play Guidance, Phase 1: Grassroots

Little League® Resources:

• 2020 Little League® Season Resumption Guide

• Best Practice Guidelines

USA Pickleball Association Resources:

• USAPA Guidance on Safe Return to Play

Swimming Pools

Park and recreation professionals should adhere to all state and local public health guidance regarding swimming pool operations and management. In addition, park and recreation professionals should follow CDC guidance as they manage aquatic facilities. Park and recreation professionals will need to address these key factors to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission:

• Cleaning and disinfection measures for all parts of facility daily and after each use if equipment is shared (restrooms, pool furniture, front desk, pool noodles, concessions, doorknobs, locker rooms, faucets/sinks, etc.).

• Encouraging and monitoring physical distancing to maintain 6 feet of distance between people from separate households while not detracting from lifeguarding responsibilities. 

• Implementing environmental controls — barriers between staff and pool users, removal of furniture, entry lines with 6 feet of distance, shared spaces including offices, limiting equipment sharing, etc.

• Swimming pool user measures — proper hygiene, mask measures (not while in water), conducting health screenings, using a PA system to remind users to distance, etc.

• Staff safety measures — establish policies for safe behavioral practices (physical distancing, hand washing, face coverings, health screenings, protocols on first aid and CPR, etc).

• Communications and community awareness and education plan.

For additional guidance, see CDC's Considerations for Public Pools, Hot Tubs and Water Playgrounds During COVID-19. 

CDC Resources for Water Management

CDC’s Water and COVID-19 FAQs page states “there is no evidence that the virus that causes COVID-19 can be spread to people through the water in pools, hot tubs, spas or water play areas. Proper operation and maintenance (including disinfection with chlorine and bromine) of these facilities should inactivate the virus in the water.

While there is ongoing community spread of the virus that causes COVID-19, it is important for individuals as well as owners and operators of these facilities to take steps to ensure health and safety:

• Everyone should follow local and state guidance that may determine when and how recreational water facilities may operate.

• Individuals should continue to protect themselves and others at recreational water venues both in and out of the water — for example, by practicing physical distancing, wearing masks and proper hygiene.

• In addition to ensuring water safety and quality, owners and operators of community pools, hot tubs, spas and water play areas should follow the interim guidance for businesses and employers for cleaning and disinfecting their community facilities.

Swimming Pool Park User Guidance

There is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread to humans through the water. Proper operation, maintenance and disinfection (with chlorine or bromine) of pools should kill COVID-19.

Swimming and other water-related activities are excellent ways to get the physical activity needed for a healthy life. If you are not sick or experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, it is safe to use swimming pools as long as steps are taken to reduce the spread of COVID-19:

• Practice social distancing by staying at least six feet (two meters) from others.

• Avoid large gatherings of more than 10 people.

• Keep your hands clean by washing hands with soap and water, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol if soap and water are not available.

Swimming does carry some health risks. Visit CDC’s Healthy Swimming website for information to help you prevent illness and drowning, while having fun and enjoying the health benefits of swimming.

Splashpads/Water Parks/Water Playgrounds

CDC has issued guidance for hot tubs, water playgrounds or water parks. According to CDC, “There is no evidence that the virus that causes COVID-19 can spread directly to humans from water in pools, hot tubs or spas or water play areas. Proper operation, maintenance and disinfection (for example, with chlorine or bromine) of pools, hot tubs or spas, and water playgrounds should kill the virus that causes COVID-19.” While this means that regular operation, maintenance and disinfection should kill the virus, park and recreation professionals should establish detailed plans in partnership with local public health and government officials that allow for the safe reopening of these spaces.

Professionals can refer to NRPA’s detailed playground reopening guidance for applicable suggestions on reopening splashpads. At a minimum, plans should include:

• Installing visible and accessible signage clearly documenting safe use and proper behaviors on site (staying home when ill, proper hygiene, physical distancing, etc.)

• Ensuring that community members are aware and educated about public health protection measures and risk.

• Encouraging proper hygiene, hand washing and hand sanitizing — consider having wash stations and hand sanitizing stations on site to support these behaviors.

• Having a system in place for monitoring physical distancing and limiting gatherings to support public health.

Be prepared to revert back to closure if community spread increases.

In addition to the public facilities you manage, park and recreation professionals will need to take into account how they create a safe work environment in their work spaces and administrative offices. The CDC has issued guidance and considerations for cleaning and disinfecting your facilities.

Additionally, NRPA has prepared a Workplace Reopening Decision Tool based on draft guidance released by the CDC to help guide you in the reopening process.

Download a Printable Version of the Workplace Reopening Decision Tool

Other resources available:

• CDC Decision Tools for Business and Workplaces:
   - Workplaces During the COVID-19 Pandemic

• CDC Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Facility

• CDC Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers Responding to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), May 2020

NRPA will provide more guidance as available. Check this page regularly for updates.