After consultation with county health officials, the Chester County Commissioners have extended the county government’s essential-services-only operation to Friday, May 15 at all county buildings.

The Commissioners have also announced a gradual re-opening of all seven parks owned by the county.

Black Rock Sanctuary, Wolf’s Hollow Park, and Exton Park will re-open on Wednesday, May 6. Hibernia Park, Nottingham County Park, Springton Manor Farm, and Warwick Park will re-open on Tuesday, May 12.

“The continuation of essential services-only helps to protect the health and safety of Chester County’s 2,400 full- and part-time employees, as well as anyone from the public,” said Chester County Commissioner Marian Moskowitz.

“And although we have been ‘open’ just for essential services like our 9-1-1 Center, Pocopson Home long-term care facility, the Chester County Prison and Youth Center, the Coroner’s Office, and crucial court and human services functions, we have also been able to provide more than 60 percent of all county programs and services remotely during this time.”

The Commissioners’ decision to re-open Chester County’s seven parks follows the announcement by Gov. Tom Wolf to re-open limited outdoor recreational activities. While the three county-owned trails – Chester Valley Trail, Struble Trail, and Schuylkill River Trail – have remained open during the pandemic, county officials have stressed the immense importance of maintaining social distancing and wearing masks, while on the trails.

That message of social distancing and wearing masks applies to anyone visiting Chester County’s parks once they re-open.

“The weather is improving, and visits to all of our parks are great for our physical and mental well-being,” said Commissioner Josh Maxwell. “But we cannot stress enough the need to continue adhering to the recommendations to stop the spread of the coronavirus – from keeping six feet apart and wearing masks, to the frequent use of hand sanitizer before, during, and after visiting our parks and trails.”

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