Support Local During COVID-19: Urbana Park District
In the greater Champaign County area, local businesses aren't just businesses. Our neighbors, family, and friends are all working to keep things as normal as possible amidst the COVID-19 precautions as outlined by the Governor of Illinois and the Champaign-Urbana Public Health Department. These challenging times serve as a reminder to residents in the greater Champaign County area just how wonderful our local businesses, restaurants, and community truly is. If there's ever a time to embrace #OutsideofOrdinary, it's now.
Urbana PARK DISTRICT
Weeks into social distancing and stay-at-home orders, many of us appreciate fresh air more now than ever before. A quick walk or much-needed hike can do wonders for our emotional and mental well-being. The Urbana Park District is complying with regulations from the state and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to continue offering spaces for people to explore our community.
Urbana Park District walking trails and natural areas are open; however, playground equipment, basketball courts, and tennis courts are closed to the public. On top of this, individuals using walking trails and natural areas are encouraged to practice social distancing by giving each other space while using the parks.
Additionally, the Urbana Park District reminds patrons to please throw away all trash, including animal waste from your pets. Our parks need everyone’s help in keeping our natural areas clean and sanitary.
It's not hard to come up with new places to explore around Urbana thanks to the Park District's daily posts on social media. Likewise, their News page on the UPD website is featuring different parks regularly to remind you of all the great areas and natural walking spaces to explore when you need a breather.
Lastly, if you want to stay home but still experience scenic areas of Urbana, check out this virtual hike of Busey Woods! Judy Miller, Environmental Program Manager for UPD, walks viewers through a history of the woods as well as some seasonal sights as we continue to enter the heart of Spring.
Follow the Urbana Park District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
HOW TO SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS DURING THE CORONAVIRUS
As we see a reduction in business to our area, we continue to encourage the support of our local businesses and the hospitality industry. As of Sunday, March 15, it is state-mandated that bars & restaurants close through March 30. Please note that carry-out and curbside pick-up options are available. We are collecting information on these options and posting them here, but also encourage patrons to follow their favorite spots on social media for updates or call for more information.
We will continue to post updates on our Business Updates and Cancellations page as we receive them, but encourage everyone to take guidelines from the Illinois Department of Public Health and the CDC seriously.