The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection is anticipating several state parks will reach capacity and close as temperatures are expected to be warm for the first weekend of May.
High temperatures on both Saturday and Sunday are expected to be around 70 degrees.
These parks have reached parking capacity and are now closed:
- C.P. Huntington State Park in Bethel/Newtown/Redding
- Southford Falls State Park in Southbury
DEEP is encouraging residents to explore new parts of the state while maintaining social distancing.
"We have so many people coming out and enjoying the parks, which is on one hand fantastic and on another hand it is causing some difficulties,” explained Tom Tyler, the Director of State Parks. “And folks are in close proximity to one another if we didn't reduce capacities at some locations and people weren't really really diligent about social distancing."
With 142 state parks and forests across the state, what better time to venture out and try somewhere new.
"I kind of joke if you've heard of a state park before don't go there, go someplace else. Find a new one," said Tyler.
The Connecticut state parks are reducing the amount of people who can visit during the coronavirus outbreak and there are now fines and charges possible for people who violate social distancing guidelines.
DEEP is reminding residents to continue practicing social distancing while in the parks and to only stay close to your immediate household in groups no larger than five people.
"It's not an opportunity to meet up with people for the day or to congregate with friends at a location, but really to come out and get that exercise. Enjoy the outdoors, but to do it in a safe way," Tyler added.
Picnics are not allowed in the parks at this time.
Masks and cloth face coverings must also be worn where social distancing cannot be maintained, DEEP said.
"We encourage residents to stay the course and continue these good practices, particularly as beautiful weather arrives and the urge to spend more time outdoors increases. We're all in this together," DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said in part.
Dykes is expected to give an update on the parks and recommendations for safe usage as the weather continues to get nicer more consistently. Her update is scheduled to begin at 11:30 a.m.
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Several State Parks Expected to Reach Capacity, Close During This Weekend’s Nice Weather - NBC Connecticut
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