Phase 2.5: Playgrounds, museums return in time for holiday weekend

For many people, this new phase means a normal part of life is coming back to life: Playing on a playground on a beautiful holiday weekend.

For many weeks, parents and children have not had playgrounds open to them. A visit to the park might mean just walking around the pond or taking a stroll in the grass.

“We just walk around the pond, looks at the ducks – that is pretty much it," said Molly Shelton, a parent.

Nothing against the ducks -- but most young children were really looking forward to playing on playgrounds once again.

“The playground is right there, and it is hard to keep them away," said Ellie Tabeling, another local mom.

In Phase 2.5, COVID-19 restrictions are easing once again, allowing playgrounds to open.

Other attractions like indoor playgrounds, museums and aquariums can operate at reduced capacity.

While some places will open right away when restrictions change Friday evening, playgrounds in Raleigh and Wake County officially reopen Saturday.

“There is a signage requirement. There is also a cleaning requirement," said Chris Snow, Wake County Parks Recreation and Open Space Director

Signs will be placed to remind people returning to play – how they need to do it safely.

“You want to maintain social distancing. You want to wear a mask if you can’t do that.”

Raleigh officials urge similar precautions. They say equipment will not be sanitized daily. Visitors will use playground equipment at their own risk.

Although statewide rules for gatherings are now eased to allow up to 25 people inside and 50 people outside, Orange County officials said that they plan to stick with smaller groups – 10 inside and 25 outside – for a while because the local infection rate remains high.