Safety encouraged for those recreating in parks, trails and roadways
The Plymouth Public Safety and Parks and Recreation departments encourage residents to make safety a priority when walking, biking, driving and recreating.
As Minnesota’s stay home order and warmer weather bring an increased number of people to Plymouth parks, trails and roadways for fresh air and exercise, all residents should be mindful and take measures to protect themselves and others while using these public spaces.
As residents practice social distancing, it’s important to pay extra attention as people take wider paths around others on trails, cross roadways to maintain distance, or walk, bike and jog in areas they normally would not.
Always be aware of what is happening around you, and keep the following guidelines in mind – whether you are a pedestrian, bicyclist or motorist.
Trails
It’s important that trail users practice social distancing guidelines – allowing at least 6 feet of space from other users. Bicyclists, walkers, rollerbladers, joggers and more must work together to share the trails and prevent accidents during periods of high traffic.
Trail safety guidelines include:
- All trail traffic should travel on the right side and provide an audible warning to pass on the left
- Stay alert and aware of your surroundings
- Wear reflective or brightly colored clothing
- Do not enter a crosswalk if a vehicle is approaching
Learn more about trails and trail safety in Plymouth.
Roadways
There has also been a recent increase in the number of people walking, biking and jogging on Plymouth roadways. Motorists should keep the following in mind at all times:
- Adhere to the posted speed limit
- Stop for pedestrians at crosswalks – it’s the law
- Exercise extra caution and reduce speed when driving in neighborhoods, near parks and at trail crossings
- Obey traffic signs and use turn signals
Parks
While Plymouth parks are open for walking, running, enjoying nature and more, park users should follow safety guidelines to help slow the spread of the coronavirus.
When using parks, residents should maintain social distancing and avoid congregating in groups. Residents should also stay off playground equipment, benches and picnic tables – these surfaces are not sanitized. Park users should avoid shared sports equipment and not participate in group sports such as basketball, soccer, Frisbee, pickleball, etc.
Learn more about park usage guidelines in Plymouth.
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