<p><strong>A reminder to residents that the City of Auburn is following the Governor&rsquo;s recent Executive Order to protect public health. In doing so, the City has made the decision to restrict the use of Auburn&rsquo;s parks and open spaces.</strong></p>
<p>Recent reports of large crowds using basketball courts and other group play in public spaces and on playgrounds has made it increasingly difficult to implement appropriate physical distancing. As a result, the City of Auburn is temporarily closing some city parks, playgrounds, outdoor basketball courts, and athletic fields.</p>
<p><strong>CLOSED:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Bonney Park - playground</li>
<li>Chestnut Street - soccer field</li>
<li>Union Street/Gully - basketball courts</li>
<li>Pettengill Park - playgrounds and softball/baseball field</li>
<li>Lake Grove Park (Municipal Beach) - playground and basketball court</li>
<li>Moulton Park - skate park</li>
<li>Tot Lot - playground</li>
<li>Drummond Street - playground</li>
<li>Raymond Park - playground</li>
<li>Tribou softball field</li>
<li>Lake View playground and softball fields, as well as</li>
<li>All school fields, playgrounds and basketball courts</li>
</ul>
<p>Signage has been posted near the closed playgrounds and fields, and basketball hoops have been temporarily removed.</p>
<p>The City of Auburn understands that our local parks, trails and open spaces serve as places where people can find respite and seek peace and restoration. During this time of uncertainty, these places are needed now more than ever. However, given the current circumstances surrounding COVID-19, we are faced with challenges on when and how residents can safely enjoy our parks, trails and open spaces.</p>
<p>The City has aligned its decisions with recommendations from the National Parks and Recreation Association, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, and the Department and Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry.</p>
<p>Residents are reminded that Mt. Apatite and the beautiful Auburn Riverwalk will remain open following CDC guidelines for social distancing. Additionally, fishing season is open and free (no permit required) through April 30.</p>
<p>Enjoy Auburn&rsquo;s greenspaces, but continue to follow CDC guidance on the recommended size of social gatherings (less than 10), including outdoor picnicking and hiking. Be sure to always maintain proper physical distance and remember that there should be no group play.</p>
<p>The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife offers the following tips on how to get some fresh air while being smart, staying safe, and sticking close to home.</p>
<p><strong>Go Where They Aren&rsquo;t (AKA &ldquo;How to Avoid Crowds&rdquo;)</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Visit a lesser-known spot and explore places close to home.</li>
<li>Have a plan B (and C). If your first destination has a busy parking lot, go to the next spot on your list! www.mainetrailfinder.com is a great resource.</li>
<li>Get outside earlier or later in the day to avoid peak times, and please keep your visits brief.</li>
<li>Recharge in your backyard and neighborhood! Backyard adventures in the time of coronavirus are an excellent idea. Remind friends and neighbors to stay safe by tagging Instagram pics with #backyardpark.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Know Before You Go</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>If you are exhibiting symptoms related to COVID-19, or if you have recently been exposed to COVID-19, please stay home.</li>
<li>Stay at least six feet away from other people.</li>
<li>If you do decide to go for hike, remember trails are likely to be slippery from ice and mud, which can increase the difficulty level. Stick to easy trails to avoid injuries and further stress on health care resources.</li>
<li>Be sure to tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back.</li>
<li>Know that there will be limited access to public restrooms.</li>
<li>Always leave no trace. This includes cleaning up after your pet, so be sure to bring a disposable bag to carry out any waste.</li>
<li>And remember to help stop ticks by wearing light-colored pants, closed-toe shoes, and applying EPA-approved bug repellent.</li>
</ul>
<p>For more information of Auburn&rsquo;s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, visit<strong> www.auburnmaine.gov.</strong></p>


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