Randy Wetmore, City Manager would first like to thank everyone for their efforts at social distancing, and City officials feel there has been a substantial reduction in use of the parks. While solo exercise is okay, team sports (such as basketball, football, softball, and soccer) are not permitted in our parks at this time. To reiterate, please always maintain at least 6-feet of distance between yourself and others when outside of your home and avoid congregating in groups. The Mayor and Council are pleased with residents assisting in mitigating the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

As of April 4, 2020, the Governor has issued an expanded Executive Order (www.governor.wv.gov), which includes Harrison County. The new Executive Order, which among other things limits gatherings to no more than 5 people, and the prediction by many that the number of confirmed cases will be increasing over the next several weeks we are highly encouraging people not to use the parks, park shelters, picnic tables and trails for at least the next two weeks.  City officials will update should additional time be necessary.

“We know people enjoy walking the trails,” Wetmore said, “but at this time we are encouraging people to walk around their neighborhoods rather than the trails.  But while doing that, you need to practice social distancing as well.  We are trying to discourage people from gathering in keeping with the recommendations of both the Federal and State governments.”

We are also asking individuals who are fishing at the lakes to practice social distancing and remain 6-feet apart.  This includes the area around the lakes, as well as on the dock. In an effort to minimize person-to-person contact, city staff will place “Caution” tape around all pavilions. We would like to stress that pavilions are not to be used at this time.

Again, thank you all for doing your best to limit the spread of the COVID-19 in Bridgeport and Harrison County.

We are all in this together and together we will successfully get through this.