Fairfax County Park Authority To Start Opening Parking Lots

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA — The Fairfax County Park Authority announced Tuesday barricades will be cleared and parking lots opened in time for Memorial Day weekend. The park openings will happen in phases from Wednesday, May 20 to Friday, May 22 at all 427 county-operated parks.

According to a news release from the park authority, parks will operate in a limited capacity and follow guidelines from the Virginia governor and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Park visitors are asked to follow physical distancing guidelines and avoid groups over 10 people.

Features that remain closed are: restrooms, portable restrooms, dog parks, playgrounds, nature centers, visitor centers, horticultural centers, RECenters, volleyball and basketball courts, and athletic fields. Water fountations will remain off.

"We greatly appreciate the patience and cooperation shown by County residents during this closure," said Fairfax County Park Authority executive director Kirk Kincannon in a statement. "We understand this has been a challenge to many who enjoy the park system on a regular basis. And it will be important that everyone follows the safety and physical distancing guidelines recommended by health authorities."

The park authority previously announced a phased opening of its golf courses and select farmers markets.