There has been a lot of talk over the past few weeks about whether or not public spaces used for recreation should stay open, and Georgia’s State Parks and the Atlanta BeltLine are often mentioned specifically. Community activists have even started a petition lobbying for the closure of these locations. Yesterday Governor Brian Kemp and Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms reiterated that the Atlanta BeltLine will remain open, but some additional restrictions have been put in place.
Here’s a recap of what the rules are for using the BeltLine:
- From 6am to 10am, priority for using the trail is to be given to “older adults, people with disabilities, and those with compromised health conditions” such as asthma and other respiratory ailments.
- Between 10am and 2pm, the BeltLine is open to for normal exercises like walking and jogging, but limited to people who do not have other options for such activities.
- After 2pm every day, the BeltLine is to be reserved only for those who use it for work and/or emergency related travel. This includes trips for groceries, medicine and other essentials.
How will this be enforced? We aren’t sure just yet, as the City of Atlanta is still working out those details. Leaving the BeltLine open has been touted as essential for maintaining the physical and mental health of Atlantans. Others are convinced open spaces like this should be closed for safety. We will definitely be paying attention to any further orders by state and local officials.