|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2022, parks were closed as part of the national effort stop the spread of the virus. As the months went by, the City of Miami Gardens Parks and Recreation Department sought to balance the health and safety mandates with the needs of the community. While the parks were physically closed, a “Virtual Parks and Recreation” (VPR) program was implemented on YouTube to keep residents engaged.
Although the City is still dealing with the pandemic one year later, the parks in Miami Gardens have measures in place and reopened safely allowing passive activities only. But playing in a City park isn’t like it used to be. Visitors are required to wear masks and social distance, as well as frequently sanitize. Still, Jackie Shakespeare, Assistant Director at Miami Gardens Parks and Recreation, encourages all residents to see what parks have to offer during this time at Miami Gardens Parks and Recreation on YouTube.
Most parks are open for passive recreation like walking and jogging. The track and fitness center at Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex is also open. And there are limited after-school programs ongoing at AJ King, Miami Carol City, Rolling Oaks and Norwood Parks. “As schools reopened, we followed by reopening after-school programs at four (4) of our recreational facilities,” Shakespeare said. The programs are organized into small groups to minimize contact between students. Students are given daily temperature checks, are required to sanitize and wash their hands often, and can only be picked up or dropped off through a drive-thru parent pick up line.
Shakespeare wants City residents to know that even though parks are open, virtual activities are still available for those who don’t feel comfortable getting out.
On VPR, there are classes on DIY arts and crafts, the Feel Good Fitness Series for adults and seniors, CrossFit, Zumba, kickboxing, boot camp, pilates, dance and aqua-fit, as well as other workout classes available. They also offer tips on bike riding and nutrition, a Fun Foodie series for children, basic first aid instruction, athletic drills and games to play at home.
The City also has a “Zoom into Parks” program, where residents can register for online classes like yoga, chess and calligraphy. Shakespeare emphasized that the department’s commitment to the community didn’t stop when the pandemic hit. Adding virtual programs proved that. “We understand the importance of keeping our residents active and engaged during this time.”
