Texas State Parks and Historical Sites close under Governor Abbotts’ orders
First, chairs were put up at local coffee shops, as Texas Governor Greg Abbott suggested that only 50 people should gather all restaurants and bars. As the coronavirus situation became more desperate, bars were closed and restaurants were limited to drive through or pickup only. Now, beginning at 5:00 PM on April 7, all Texas State Parks and historical sites will be closed, per a press release on the State of Texas website. “Given the myriad of challenges and heightened risks of operating the parks at this time, we believe this is the best course of action right now in order to meet the health and safety expectations the state has set out for the citizens of Texas,” said Carter Smith, Executive Director of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
The goal of the state and historical sites’ closure is to encourage social distancing. At these sites. Abbott assumed that large groups had the potential to gather, thus potentially further spreading the virus. “I urge all Texans to continue to stay at home except for essential services as we respond to COVID-19,” Abbott said.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department staff will still take care of state parks during the closure. More specifically, the staff will provide “standard upkeep, maintenance, stewardship and continued regular cleaning of site facilities.”
Guests set to stay at the park from now until April 30 are being contacted by the parks’ customer service about their reservations and canceled reservations will be processed immediately.
Texans are encouraged to stay near home, by the TPWD staff. “TPWD will continue to do its part to actively encourage and promote these opportunities in ways that are safe and close to home,” said Smith.
Texas State Parks and historical sites will reopen immediately when they can.
