By Eric LaFontaine, Assistant Communications Manager
Mount Pleasant, S.C. (April 28, 2020) – During the April 27 Emergency Council Meeting, Town Council voted to approve Phase 2 of the Parks Reopening Plan thereby opening all town parks by the weekend. This phase is the second part of a four-step plan to return the town’s recreational facilities to normal operations. Even though the parks will be open, certain restrictions will still be in place to ensure the safety and health of all patrons. Enforcement of distancing and gathering limits will be conducted by Recreation staff with the assistance of the Mount Pleasant Police Department.
Starting Friday, May 1 at 7 am, all outdoor Town parks and facilities will open (except as noted) subject to the following:
- Hours of operation will be 7am to 7pm
- All social distancing and gathering restrictions will apply
- No organized activities, team practices, personal training, exercise groups, etc.
- People must remain moving. There will be no lingering, no blankets or picnics allowed.
- The tracks at Park West and Town Hall as well as the circular path at Memorial Waterfront Park will be set up so that all people must walk or run in the same direction. The same will be allowed at Shem Creek Park, meaning that people will not be able to walk towards the end of the pier, but may walk on connected portions of the docks in one direction. Signage will be posted to show the direction of pedestrian traffic.
- Tennis courts at the Mugsy Kerr Tennis Complex on Whipple Road will be available for open play. No league play.
- Resumption of private and semi-private tennis lessons. (1 or 2 participants with instructor)
- Outdoor pickleball courts at Park West and Miriam Brown will be available for open play
- Outdoor basketball courts will be open for individual play. No group basketball games.
- Restrooms will remain closed at all facilities
- Playgrounds will remain closed
- Pitt Street Bridge park will remain closed
- Per Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission, the pier at Waterfront Park remains closed
The Phase 2 plan includes the continuation of Essential Farm Goods Market on Tuesdays from 1:00 to 7:00 at the Farmers Market located at Moultrie Middle School. Limitations on vendors and enforcement of social distancing guidelines will apply.