PHOENIX — Easter weekend is going to look a lot different at Phoenix parks this year.
In an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus, the city is putting temporary restrictions in place.
The city says the temporary restrictions are in effect this weekend because the parks are usually full of a lot of people getting together to celebrate.
As a result, restrooms will be closed, picnicking and grilling are not allowed and parking lots will be closed. If drivers have an accessibility parking placard, they can park.
Ambassadors and park rangers will be around to educate and enforce the changes.
City Parks and Recreation Director Inger Erickson says this is necessary to stop the spread of the coronavirus.
“That time will come again, and when that time comes, the parks will be open for those kinds of activities," Erickson said.
"But today and this Easter weekend, we really need to make sure we do our part to keep the spread down.”
People who live in the Valley like John Cahal say their Easter weekend with their families are going to look a lot different this year.
“We’re all going to connect via messaging or FaceTime," Cahal said. "And so that’s really the only what we get right now if we want to keep each other safe.”
So what is allowed?
The city says people who want to come and walk the paths or grass while sticking to CDC guidelines for social distancing and small, preferably immediate family groups, are OK.
The temporary restrictions are in effect after parks close Friday through Sunday. For details click here.
There are other restrictions in place over Easter weekend at other areas in Arizona.