2020-05-18 County of Hawaii to Reopen Beach Parks as COVID-19 Cases Abate -- press release

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Roy Takemoto Managing Director Harry Kim Mayor Barbara J. Kossow Deputy Managing Director County of Hawai‘i Office of the Mayor 25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2603  Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720  (808) 961-8211  Fax (808) 961-6553 KONA: 74-5044 Ane Keohokālole Hwy., Bldg C  Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i 96740 (808) 323-4444  Fax (808) 323-4440 May 18, 2020 NEWS RELEASE Hawai‘i County to Reopen its Beach Parks Islandwide The County of Hawai‘i announced on Monday that it will reopen its beach parks islandwide as soon as the Governor gives his approval, since the number of active cases of COVID-19 remains low thanks to the efforts of the entire community to stem the spread of the virus. The Mayor has submitted his Rule Number 5 to the Governor for final approval. This will officially reopen the County’s beach parks; the rule also states permitted activities that may occur at these facilities. “These beach parks are being reopened for your enjoyment and your wellbeing,” Mayor Harry Kim said. “Please keep up the safe practices of social distancing that helped us get to where we are today.” The only exceptions to the reopening are Hakalau Beach Park and Kūhiō Kalaniana‘ole Park, which have been closed due to necessary improvement work. The Mayor is working with the Department of Parks and Recreation to determine the next phase of County facilities to reopen, such as tennis courts, pickleball courts, etc. Although the County beach parks will reopen, the threat of COVID-19 is still present and we must do all we can to remain safe. The Mayor said that all beachgoers must follow the safe practices stated in the CDC guidelines and Hawai‘i County Rules. “Know the importance of staying mentally, physically and social healthy with these rules,” the Mayor said. Please keep up your good work as we continue to reopen in a safe way. For further information, please call Civil Defense at 935-0031. County of Hawai‘i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.