Dear City of Auburn Parks & Trail users –
As part of its evolving response to the COVID-19 outbreak and with guidance from Public Health – Seattle & King County, the City of Auburn has CLOSED all active recreation areas in parks. This includes playground equipment, sports courts (tennis, basketball, pickleball), baseball fields, mod-soccer fields, and picnic shelters. All recreation areas where it could be difficult to maintain recommended social distancing guidelines.
Parks, trails and open playfields where social distancing can be maintained remain OPEN.
Pick-up games, picnics, and other large gatherings will not be permitted.
Restrooms within the parks are currently closed. Park users are encouraged to GO before you GO to a park.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has flagged mental health as a top concern associated with the COVID-19 outbreak. We recognize that social distancing may take a toll on our mental health, especially during high-stress and anxiety-producing global public health emergencies. We also know that parks provide a connection to the outdoors and green space as well as opportunities for physical activity which studies demonstrate reduces stress and improves mental health.
We believe that many parks, trails and open spaces can continue to be used in a safe manner that allows people to enjoy the mental and physical health benefits these spaces provide. In all instances, we recommend people follow park rules regarding the use of these spaces.
 We are encouraging all users to follow these recommendations:
- Follow CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene prior to heading to parks and trails — wash hands, carry hand sanitizer, do not visit public spaces if you have symptoms, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, etc.
- Observe at all times CDC’s minimum recommended social distancing of six feet from other people. Practice it and know what it looks like. Keep it as you walk, bike or hike.
- Bring a suitable trash bag. Leave no trash, take everything out to protect park workers.
Find a complete list of Auburn Parks and trails online at www.auburnwa.gov/parks.
Across all our communities, local parks, trails and open spaces have always served as places where people can find respite and seek peace and restoration. Let us all do our part to use them in a way that respects each other and public health guidance.
Stay informed:
Please check the following resources for updates about Auburn Parks, Arts and Recreation operations and facilities:
- City of Auburn Coronavirus Update - including information about Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation facilities and programs.
- Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation Facebook Page
- Facility Voicemails: Please call the Auburn Community & Event Center, Monday-Friday (8am-5pm), at 253-931-3043 or the Auburn Senior Activity Center, Monday-Friday (8am-5pm), at 253-931-3016 for updates and current program status as needed.
Guidance for people at higher risk for severe COVID-19 Illness
Public Health recommends that people at higher risk of severe illness should stay home. People at higher risk include:
- People 60 and older
- People with underlying health conditions including heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes
- People who have weakened immune systems
- People who are pregnant
Caregivers of children with underlying health conditions should consult with healthcare providers about whether their children should stay home. Anyone who has questions about whether their condition puts them at risk for novel coronavirus should consult with their healthcare providers.
Guidance for the General Public:
- Even if you are not ill, avoid visiting hospitals, long term care facilities or nursing homes to the extent possible. If you do need to visit one of these facilities limit your time there and keep 6 feet away from patients.
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Do not go to the emergency room unless essential. Emergency rooms need to be able to serve those with the most critical needs. If you have symptoms like cough, fever, or other respiratory problems, contact your regular doctor first.
- Stay home when sick.
- Practice excellent personal hygiene habits, including washing your hands with soap and water frequently, coughing into a tissue or your elbow, and avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Stay away from people who are ill, especially if you are at higher risk for coronavirus.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects (like doorknobs and light switches). Regular household cleaners are effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth unless you've just washed your hands.
- Get plenty of rest, drink plenty of fluids, eat healthy foods, and manage your stress to keep your immunity strong.
This information is subject to change based on recommendations and directives from King County Public Health and Washington State Department of Health. If anything additional changes pertaining to our operations, we will be sure to update you as quickly as possible.
Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation
253-931-3043 | www.auburnwa.gov/play
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