Pittsburgh playgrounds, courts and ballfields to reopen
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City of Pittsburgh playgrounds, basketball courts, ballfields and spray parks are opening for the first time in nearly three months.
With Allegheny County having entered the green phase of response to the covid-19 pandemic, organized sports will be allowed to resume as long as organizers follow safety guidelines, officials said.
Permits will again be accepted for rental of ballfields and open-air park shelters and the Mellon Tennis Bubble will reopen at 50% capacity.
“I’m happy we can provide more outdoor opportunities to city residents, though we still need everyone to be cautious and safe even in this reopening phase,” said Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto.
Use of most amenities in city parks has been suspended since mid-March. Reopenings will be done on a rolling basis with most being completed by June 15.
Block party and special event permits for outdoor groups will be allowed for groups of up to 250. However they must include a covid-19 safety plan containing hand-washing and social distancing protocols while those using city parks are urged to regularly make sure children wash their hands and not use playgrounds if they are sick.
Restrooms, swimming pools, recreation centers and senior centers will remain closed. Those using parks are urged to bring their own water for hydration as water fountains remain turned off.
Department of Public Works crews are rehabilitating ballfields and other sites this week and will be posting signage on their safe use. Crews will also clean playgrounds regularly.