Special to Iredell Free News

The Iredell County Parks & Recreation Department is continuing to evaluate local, state, and national guidelines in regards to COVID-19 and the phased reopening plan issued by the State of North Carolina. The department’s main priority is the health and safety of our patrons and staff.

The department is excited to announce the following changes in operations, based on the Governor’s Executive Order 163:

 ♦ The Iredell County Recreation Center will open on Tuesday, September 8, with limited capacity and adjusted hours of operations. Reservations for workout sessions will be required.

♦ Playgrounds will open Tuesday, September 8. The playgrounds will not be sanitized regularly; therefore, it is highly recommended you follow the 3 W’s, as well as adhere to the outdoor mass gathering limits.

♦ Athletic field reservations for small group trainings, conditioning and practices will continue to be available. League organizers who intend to prepare for league play in sports that are on the CDC’s approved list of non-contact sports, are encouraged to initiate registrations and plan to begin play on October 2.

Currently, the following facilities and amenities are open (with guidelines):

Park Properties: Stumpy Creek Park, Stumpy Creek Boat Landing (fees charged), Scotts Rosenwald Park, Jennings Park, Bigleaf Slopes Park, East Iredell Lions Club Community Park
Scotts Rosenwald Park and East Iredell Lions Club Park Community Buildings
Park trails and walking paths
Park open spaces and fields
Park restrooms
Playgrounds
Disc Golf Course

Temporarily closed, with anticipated plans to re-open in Phase III:
Water Fountains
Indoor Basketball courts for organized play

General Considerations

The following considerations will remain in place:

 ♦ Physical distancing (6 feet minimum) should be observed in public
Limit gatherings to less than 25 people indoors in Community Centers, and 50 people outdoors (maintain physical distancing). The capacity at the Recreation Center will be restricted based on the Executive Order 163. In order to achieve proper social distancing, 19 people will be admitted on the first floor fitness center and 25 people in the gymnasium.
Face masks are required inside county buildings, unless participating in exercise
Do not engage in activities that require physical or shared contact, or use of shared surfaces (such as sports equipment, etc.)
Dispose of trash properly, or take it with you when you leave
Use of park properties or amenities is considered “Use At Your Own Risk.” While there is mitigation guidance, social recommendations, and some sanitizing procedures in place, transmission can still occur

LEARN MORE

Detailed information regarding Recreation Center operations including hours of operations, reservation processes, field reservations, and more will be located on the Iredell County Parks and Recreation Webpage at www.iredellparksandrec.com.