Title
OPARD COVID-19 Update
Recommended Action
Receive briefing on the current status of parks
Report
Issue:
Receive update on the current status of parks and steps that have been taken related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Staff Contact:
Paul Simmons, Director, Parks, Arts and Recreation, psimmons@ci.olympia.wa.us
Background and Analysis:
This is a follow up to the May update that was provide to PRAC.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Parks, Arts, and Recreation Department has worked to quickly adapt to uncertain times. Below is a bulleted summary of the high-level actions that have been implemented and continue to evolve as guidelines and resources change. Some of these actions are tied to larger City-wide strategies, while others are specific to our operation. At the meeting, the Director will give a general overview of these actions and answer questions related to our Department’s response to COVID-19.
• Update related to budget cuts and declaration of exigent financial circumstances.
• Regional approach to re-opening or parks and programs and collaborative effort to promote social distancing.
• Re-opening of sports activities and limited shelter use.
• Provided support for downtown initiatives.
• Transition of fall Arts Walk event to Arts Month.
• Summer camps and fall childcare programs.
• Continuation of RCO grants and construction projects.
• Response to citizens, ongoing education of guidance.
• Phased approach to re-opening programs and facilities
Attachments:
None