Westmoreland County parks reopen

Westmoreland County’s 10 parks reopened on Thursday.

Public Works Director Greg McCloskey said padlocks that barred entrance to the parks were removed to allow individuals to enter the grounds.

As part of the county’s decision to reduce operations in response to the coronavirus pandemic, officials opted to close the parks after many public works maintenance staffers were deemed non-essential and placed on paid leave for at least two weeks.

Although gates to the parking areas at the parks were locked and signs notifying the public about the closures were placed at the entrances, McCloskey said people still found ways to get in.

“A lot of residents weren’t paying attention and came to the parks anyway,” McCloskey said. “It was a little overwhelming the number of people who came, so we unlocked the gates and people can now use the open parts of the park.”

Restrooms will remain locked and trash won’t be collected during the emergency period that, for now, is expected to last through March 29. Use of playground equipment will be permitted, McCloskey said. Rentals of park pavilions remain suspended through April 6.

He said the county’s five walking and hiking trails remain open.

“We thought it was best to have them opened but we’re still encouraging residents to use social distancing,” McCloskey said.