Salinas considers reopening playgrounds closed down due to pandemic

SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV): Salinas playgrounds have been long shuttered because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but city leaders are considering reopening them.

Parents in the area say they have been anticipating a reopening of playgrounds to get their kids outside.

“The kids ask about it all the time and they say, they vocalize that they are sad that the parks are still closed and to them it probably feels like an eternity," says Salinas resident and parent, Jessica.

County health officials initially raised concerns over the potential for virus spreading at playgrounds.

Other cities like Marina, Seaside and Pacific Grove have opened up playgrounds with a "Use at Your Own Risk" approach, meaning signage is posted to inform the public of rules and health guidelines to follow.

A total of 35 playgrounds in Salinas currently remain closed off to the public due to pandemic restrictions.

Salinas city officials raised concern over possible lack of staffing to keep up with sanitation and health guideline enforcement at playgrounds and are considering the "Use at Your Own Risk" approach as an alternative.

Parents in the area say they are willing to take that risk.

“Parents should be wiping their kids hands and things already after using the playground, the playground has always been a very dirty place," says one parent.

“It’s just instinct to take care of your kid and everyone is aware of the concerns of Coronavirus," says Jessica.

The city of Monterey has not reopened playgrounds and is considering to make the move once the county moves out of the less restrictive Purple Tier.

In a statement, Salinas City Council Member Steve McShane says:

"Other jurisdictions have reopened playgrounds safely and Salinas needs to take steps to do so."

Plans are still being discussed and the City of Salinas could make a decision on Tuesday.