CAPE CORAL, Fla. — The city of Cape Coral has become the latest in Southwest Florida to reopen several of its beaches, parks, and recreational spots.
However, playgrounds, community centers, and a few other places will remain closed.
Fox 4 spoke with people on why the city council’s decision to reopen was so important to helping people get back to some sort of normalcy.
“ You can go to the grocery store and be with hundreds of people but you can’t go to your local park I mean it’s just silly, ” said Virginia Thomas.
One man says people are starting to get cabin-fever; opening beaches and parks promote exercise and help to relieve stress.
“ Otherwise they get depressed and they get bummed out and then that yields another sense of alienation beyond the economic problem, ” said William Kovel.
Normalcy is what many crave most right now
“I understand we need to be safe but we also need to take care of ourselves, be in nature, see our friends have a life, not be in a pandemic state of mind, ” said Virginia Thomas.
Cape Coral City Council adopted many phase 1 guidelines to reopen the state.
Tennis and pickleball courts, Rotary dog park, and the Cape Coral Yacht Club beach and pier will reopen starting Tuesday, May 5th.
However, the following will remain closed:
- Playgrounds
- Yacht Club pool
- Sun Splash water park
- Shelters
- Community Centers
- Cape Coral Sports Complex
Athletic fields are now set to reopen on May 12.
Council members still suggest following CDC guidelines and social distancing.
“You have to trust that people will do what’s best for them, ” said Council Member Marilyn Stout.
Marty Ritz says people have no choice but to follow the rules.
“Just make sure people stay apart and follow the rules and if we don’t well have to close up again, ” said Marty Ritz.
Visit www.capecoral.net/covid-19 for the most up to date information regarding Cape Coral parks and recreation.
