Recreation centers and program buildings closed from 3/17-4/5
March 15, 2020
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board’s (MPRB) priority is the health and safety of our park visitors and employees. The MPRB is actively monitoring the coronavirus COVID-19 in partnership with the Minneapolis Health Department, Minneapolis Office of Emergency Management, and the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), which is leading the statewide response to COVID-19. MPRB leadership staff are discussing COVID-19 daily and determining strategies related to COVID-19 impacts to the MPRB, the public we serve, and our employees.
MPRB FAQs
Are MPRB recreation centers and program buildings closing?
MPRB recreation centers and program buildings will be CLOSED to the public from Tuesday, March 17 through Sunday, April 5. This includes MPRB’s 47 recreation centers, ice arenas, Kroening Interpretive Center, and Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden visitor shelter. These closures follow the March 14 announcements by Governor Walz and Minneapolis Public Schools related to school closures for distance learning planning. These MPRB program buildings will be open to the public during regular scheduled hours on Monday, March 16.
Are MPRB programs and events being cancelled?
MPRB classes, programs, events, room reservations, field trips and RecPlus childcare are cancelled from Tuesday, March 17 through Sunday, April 5. Fees will be refunded or held in registration account balances until the program resumes.
MPRB will continue to follow MDH recommendations for social distancing and closures. Any future cancellations will be listed on www.minneapolisparks.org/coronavirus.
Are parks and trails still open to the public?
Yes! Going outside and taking a walk, riding a bike or just sitting and breathing fresh air can be helpful during stressful times. If you encounter others using the same amenities, please be mindful to maintain a safe, appropriate distance.
How can I stay informed of any COVID-19 related changes in MPRB operations or services?
Can I view MPRB Board meetings remotely?
Public health officials are encouraging social distancing to slow the spread of COVID-19. The MPRB encourages members of the public who do not have an essential need to attend MPRB Board meetings to view them through the live and recorded webcast and TV options. the following live and recorded options:
Members of the public who would like to share comments during Open Time of a Board of Commissioners meeting are encouraged to submit them by email. In person Open Time comments will continue to be heard. Email addresses are available in the “contact” section for each commissioner at www.minneapolisparks.org/commissioners. If an individual submitting Open Time comments via email would like those comments to be read during Open Time, a copy of the comments should be sent to the Secretary to the Board at jringold@minneapolisparks.org before 3:30 pm on the day of the meeting. Comments submitted should be limited to approximately 300 words, which is similar to three minutes when read out loud.
Will MPRB community meetings (not Board meetings) be cancelled?
Public health officials are encouraging social distancing to slow the spread of COVID-19. In addition to Board meetings, the MPRB often holds community engagement meetings and Community Advisory Committee meetings. Upcoming non-essential community engagement meetings and open houses may be cancelled or rescheduled, and we are exploring options for having these types of meetings done virtually or by phone/conference line. Check online and subscribe to GovDelivery to receive timely updates.
What can Minnesotans do to protect themselves?
The best available guidance from the Minnesota Department of Health for avoiding coronavirus disease 19 is to take the same precautions you take for avoiding colds and flu:
How should Minnesotans prepare?
The Minnesota Department of Health recommends the following:
- As always, be prepared in case you get sick and need to stay home. Keep enough food, regular prescription drugs and other necessities on hand in case you need to stay home and are not able to easily go out.
- Make plans to care for sick household members and know what you would do if there are school closures or childcare program closures
- If you’re planning travel, check the CDC website for updated travel advisories.
Is information available in multiple languages?
The Minnesota Department of Health website features materials and resources on COVID-19 in multiple languages.
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