The mayors of Hoboken, Union City, Weehawken, West New York, North Bergen, and Guttenberg have agreed to take a collaborative, regional approach to a gradual reopening of municipal parks.

 

The move comes amid concern that if any one areas’ parks open before others, it will unintentionally attract additional residents from surrounding municipalities.

In a joint statement, the mayors say, “As we consider an eventual reopening of our municipal parks, we do so knowing that north Hudson County is perhaps the most densely populated region in the nation. With this in mind, it is absolutely critical for us, as mayors, to work together to ensure that any reopening of parks is driven by science and data and protects the health and safety of our residents. Acting as one collaborative group in our approach ensures that no park is unintentionally attracting additional residents of surrounding municipalities due to conflicting rules and regulations."

 

It will allow the cities to take a cautious and deliberative approach that prevents the unintended spread of COVID-19, while promoting social distancing.