Sarah Lemmon March 25, 2020 10:11pm

In an effort to encourage some social distancing, the City of Seattle has closed off 8 of the city’s most frequented parks’ parking lots, which includes Green Lake. But driving by the park today you wouldn’t know it. The park was packed. The parking lots to the south of the park near Woodland Park and the dog park were full with people waiting for spots.

While the parks are open for public use, Seattle Parks and Recreation and Seattle Police Department will continue to deploy staff to encourage social distancing. Understanding the Governor’s Stay at Home, Stay Healthy order, residents are encouraged to visit the 479 local neighborhood parks or to bike or walk to these destination parks, which will remain open for public use.

“We still want people to be able to enjoy our parks during this stressful time. But we have seen many of our parks have become too busy to allow folks to properly create social distance. Our hope is that closing parking lots will reduce crowds. If folks are not able to maintain six feet of space, we will need to close parks,” said Jesús Aguirre

As always, Seattle Parks and Recreation asks residents to:

• Use social distancing: the most effective tool we have to slow the spread of COVID-19 is social distancing. We are asking people to abide by social distancing guidelines in Seattle Parks.
• Do not access off limits equipment or areas: as of last week, Seattle and King County have closed all play areas and other high touch areas, such as picnic shelters, tables, and outdoor exercise equipment.
• Do not congregate in parks: the means no pick-up games, no picnics, BBQs, parties, or bonfires.
• Six feet for activities: Hiking, biking, walking are all great ways to enjoy parks right now, just remember to give a wide berth to your fellow residents.