Here’s the DPR (Parks and Pools) Situation for Phase Two – One Reader Wonders Why?

Photo by Rex Block

“Dear PoPville,

I saw on Twitter that splash pads will not reopen in Phase Two. Can anyone explain why that’s the case? The playgrounds are finally open, but mostly uninhabitable between 10am-5pm because of the heat. I’m confused about DCDPR’s reasoning that kids are somehow able to socially distance on playground equipment but not when frolicking around chlorinated water 20 feet away. This is especially urgent for kids who don’t have access to air conditioning and have no place to cool down during the day. I really hope DCDPR changes it’s plans or can clarify the distinction.”

From DPR:

“In accordance with Mayor Muriel Bower’s lifting of the District’s Stay-at-Home Order and the start of Phase Two, DPR has reopened playgrounds and athletic courts and will begin accepting permits for outdoor parks and green spaces for social gatherings of no more than 50 persons.

Like you, DPR is excited to begin the second phase of reopening our amenities after an extended closure. We look forward to welcoming residents back and appreciate your patience as we work to make sure all these public spaces meet our Gold Standard and are ready for our residents’ use. If an amenity at your local DPR facility is not ready immediately, rest assured we are working as fast as possible and it will be open soon.

Starting Monday, June 22, the following DPR facilities will be OPEN with social distancing safeguards:

• Parks
• Athletic Fields and Courts
• Walking Paths, Hiking Trails, and Tracks
• Dog Parks
• Playgrounds

The following DPR facilities will remain CLOSED until further notice:
• Indoor Facilities
• Splash Pads
• Spray Parks
• Public Pools (slated to open, with restrictions, after July 15, 2020)

Please note that during Phase Two, while on DPR grounds, all organized and high-contact (football, wrestling, boxing) sporting activities are prohibited. Special events, without a permit, are prohibited.”