Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department closes sports fields while parks remain open
| SANTA MARIA, Calif. - For Janet Castellanos, the stay-at-home order has her feeling stressed. Coming to the Rotary Centennial Park in Santa Maria is what’s keeping her spirits up. "Well my dog is the light of my life and this is his favorite thing to do is to come here so I really appreciate it, said Castellanos. The Recreation and Parks Department is closing all sports fields in hopes of encouraging social distancing. "We’re asking people not to do is get together in large groups like soccer teams and basketball and get out to the parks and play. We’re really looking to maintain that social distancing of six feet," said Dennis Smitherman with the Recreation and Parks Department. In order to discourage large sports groups from playing in the fields the department staff has placed metal-framed signs in the center of the fields. "Letting them know that these fields are closed for those large group things and activities," said Smitherman. Smitherman says it’s okay to still come to the sports fields, just not in large groups. Several residents came out to go for a walk near the sports field on Monday afternoon. "It’s good just to get out and go ahead and get some outdoor time get outside the house for a little bit and respecting the social distancing While the sports teams will not be allowed to play on the fields," said Eddie Cavazos who was going for a walk with his family. Castellanos is grateful to still be able to come to the park for some fresh air and exercise. "Thank goodness for a place like a park." |
