Union County, NJ – Union County parks will partially re-open beginning at dawn on Saturday, May 2, for limited and passive activities only, in accordance with statewide restrictions issued by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. The County’s two golf courses will open next week, after routine maintenance is conducted.

“Union County parks will re-open under guidelines that are consistent with the statewide plan, which provides for residents to benefit from healthy outdoor activities while diligently observing precautions against spreading or contracting COVID-19,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella.

“As a reminder, the virus does not disappear outside,” Mirabella added. “Please be safe, and help save lives by observing the six-foot social distance guideline and other rules for visiting County parks during this time.”

Union County parks will open on the following basis:

• All group activities, including picnics and other gatherings remain prohibited.
• Only individual activities are permitted, such as walking, jogging, bicycling, and fishing. For these activities, individuals may be accompanied by family members, caretakers, household members, or romantic partners.
• Park visitors must stay on marked paths and observe signage for social distancing.
• Park visitors are encouraged to wear masks.

The following facilities remain closed until further notice:

• Restrooms
• Picnic areas
• Athletic fields
• Playgrounds and exercise stations
• Trailside Nature & Science Center
• Warinanco Sports Center
• Watchung Stable
• Echo Lake and Warinanco dog parks

Visitors are advised to avoid congested areas. When using pathways and trails give way to others, in order to maintain a six-foot social distance.

Visitors are also advised to observe other COVID-19 preventive measures including: wash hands frequently, do not touch face, cover coughs and sneezes with tissue or elbow, do not go out if sick, stay away from sick people, and use a face mask for additional protection.

Park visitors please note: Stay on marked trails in order to preserve fragile native habitat in County parks. The taking of plants and other wildlife is prohibited. Share paved paths by keeping to the right unless passing others. Bicycles are permitted only on paved paths. Dogs must be kept on leash. All trash must be carried out where receptacles are full or unavailable.

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including guidance for the Union County Drive-Through Test Center at Kean University, visit ucnj.org/coronavirus-update.

For general information about COVID-19 and phone contacts for 24/7 assistance with questions, visit the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.