After months of COVID-19 restrictions, Pflugerville moves to reopen outdoor facilities

PFLUGERVILLE, Texas - After more than two months families were able to head to Lake Pflugerville. Groups were spread apart and kids were splashing in the water.

The Varnado family stopped by after walking around in the hot sun along the trails that surround the park. Angela Varnado said she didn’t realize the beachfront opened back up Tuesday.

“We wanted to put our feet in the water to get a taste of some relaxation and the kids love the water of course,” Varnado said. “Though things are re-opening back up we still use precaution. Wash your hands, sanitize, as well as using your masks, and keeping a 6 feet distance will help out with staying corona free.”

RELATED: Additional city services, facilities in Pflugerville to reopen beginning June 16

The decision to reopen comes weeks after the state began to phase the re-opening of businesses and state parks. Pflugerville city leaders are working with county public health officials in monitoring the current rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations. Mayor Victor Gonzales said the city is following state guidance and will slowly and cautiously open outdoor facilities.

“We’ve been waiting for this, we’ve had a lot of clamoring from our citizens that are requesting that we reopen the lake,” said Gonzales. “We want to encourage, definitely encourage social distancing rules and personal hygiene, and so forth while they are out at the lake.”

Playgrounds at most parks will remain closed until the city develops a plan to make sure equipment can be sanitized regularly.

Pflugerville pools are open with reservations and the library will have curbside services but the rec center, city hall and other public lobbies will remain closed. Gonzalez said he’s confident citizens will keep safety in mind at parks.

CLICK HERE FOR THE LATEST INFO ON THE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK

FOX 7 Austin is working to keep you up to date with coronavirus, with both local and national developments. You can also get the latest COVID-19 news from around the country at coronavirusnow.com.