NOT OUT OF THE WOODS
Rhode Island state parks slated to re-open today
LINCOLN – After being closed for more than six weeks, Lincoln Woods State Park reopens today, one of several state parks welcoming visitors as part of Gov. Gina M. Raimondo’s staggered approach to reopening parks and beaches.
Raimondo’s stay-at-home order expired Friday, setting into motion the first phase of reopening certain sectors of the state’s economy, including non-critical retail stores and certain parks. The 15 parks statewide opening today will do so with reduced parking capacity, restricted hours of operation and increased enforcement of social distancing guidelines.
The 627-acre Lincoln Woods State Park includes Olney Pond, a 128-acre reservoir that forms the heart of the park.
“You can talk a walk with your family, but you’re not going to be able to do things like have a cookout or have any kind of organized sports,” said Raimondo, who closed all parks and beaches to visitors on March 31 to enforce social distancing. “The name of the game in this phase one is to take it easy and go slow.”
Saltwater beaches will reopen with restrictions during phase two, which should coincide with Memorial Day.
“DEM is pleased to begin a gradual reopening of our beautiful state parks to visitors this month,” said DEM Director Janet Coit. “There’s no better physical and emotional elixir than fresh air and sunshine, especially during these challenging times.”
To enhance physical social distancing at popular parks, trailheads, and scenic areas, Coit says the DEM is reducing the number of available parking spaces at certain parks. Patrons are advised to have a plan ready to visit a
different park or another park area if needed, she said.
People should maintain distance from others while in places where visitors tend to congregate, such as parking lots, trailheads, and scenic overlooks. Park visitors should keep to recreation activities such as walking, hiking, biking and avoid games and activities that require close contact, such as basketball, football, or soccer. DEM also asks that visitors bring a suitable trash bag and leave no trash behind in order to protect park workers and avoid litter.
“During the COVID-19 public health emergency, visiting parks should be enjoyed as a solitary experience, with just the members of your immediate household, and not as a group activity,” Coit says.
DEM says people should bring along a face covering when in public. While wearing masks are not needed while jogging, fishing or playing outdoors, visitors will need to wear face coverings in high use areas and if they are within six feet of another person outside their household.
Public restrooms in parks will remain closed in Phase 1. Porta johns may be available in some locations.
Other parks opening today, include:
• Beavertail State Park, Jamestown.
• Black Regiment Monument, Portsmouth.
• Burlingame State Park, Charlestown.
• Cocumcussoc Park, North Kingstown.
• Fort Adams State Park, Newport.
• Fort Wetherill State Park, Jamestown.
• Haines Memorial State Park, East Providence.
• John H. Chafee Nature Preserve, North Kingstown.
• J.L. Curran State Park, Cranston.
• Lehigh High Grove, Portsmouth.
• Meshanticut State Park, Cranston.
• Pulaski State Park, Glocester.
• Purgatory Chasm, Middletown.
• Snake Den State Park, Johnston.
Other state park and beach locations will remain closed until further notice.