City of Santa Barbara closes picnic sites to cease group activities

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. -- The City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department announced the closure of picnic sites on Thursday evening.

The Parks and Recreation Department says all group activities in City parks are prohibited until further notice.

Santa Barbara Mayor Cathy Murillo said residents can still use city parks to exercise but they must maintain social distance.

"It's drawing too many people it's encouraging too much socializing so we are asking people to use the parks for passive recreation," Murillo said.

Signs will be posted in parks to explain the closures and the new policy regarding group activities.

City parks will be open during their usual hours of sunrise to one and a half-hour after sunset.

Franceschi Park, Hilda McIntyre Ray Park and Skofield Park are closed.