City playgrounds to reopen for the weekend; Storybook Land next week

ABERDEEN, S.D. (By Kelda J.L. Pharris kpharris@aberdeennews.com) – City playgrounds are reopening in time for the weekend.

And Storybook Land at Wylie Park will follow next week, at least with a soft opening, said Mark Hoven, director for Aberdeen Parks, Recreation & Forestry.

Both have been closed to help curtail the spread of COVID-19.

“The playgrounds will open based on the governor’s removal of the executive order and based on Wednesday’s meeting (of the Aberdeen City Council),” Hoven said Thursday evening.

City restrooms will also be reopening in the coming days. Hoven didn’t know the specific day, but wanted to make sure signage was up and ready. Restrooms will be cleaned up to three times a day, but he emphasized personal hygiene and responsibility for those using playgrounds and restrooms.

“When they get done, they should make sure they practice proper hygiene. Don’t be there if you don’t feel well, and do your best with social distancing,” Hoven said.

As for summer programming and the Aberdeen Aquatic Center schedule, they are still up in the air. Hoven is having regular meetings with city officials as well as other parks directors across the state to keep apprised of the best way to proceed.

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