Sunshine, Blue Skies, and Social Distance

It’s Spring, and despite some chilly days, we are making the most of the sunshine in, hopefully, a socially responsible way. Parks and Greenways have stayed open (even if parking lots closed for a short time), and Shared Streets and more greenway connectors have opened up to encourage us to go for walks or rides, and stay healthy. And many of us have!

But social distancing rules still apply, even as restrictions slowly loosen around us. It’s still important that we all do our part to slow the spread of COVID-19, or history tells us it can rear its ugly head again — and no one wants that.

So what does that mean? The Centers for Disease Control tells us to stay at least 6 feet apart from people who don’t share our household. Don’t gather in groups, so that means no playing close-contact sports like basketball or soccer, or any sport that shares equipment. Likewise, if you feel sick, stay home. In a nutshell, remember your W’s: Wash your hands, Wait 6 feet apart, and Wear a mask or cloth face covering.

Beyond the rules, manners count — especially where a lot of people want to share a limited space, like a park. Keep your distance when you spread out your blanket, and remind children to stay close to you and far from others. Keep dogs on leashes — even if your dog is friendly, you may share a park or greenway with a dog that is not, or someone who is frightened by our four-legged friends. And please, clean up after your pet. No one wants to step in THAT — or sit near it, either.

If you are exercising, be aware of others — especially where bikes and pedestrians share a path. Adults riding bikes generally move faster than walkers, joggers, Fido sniffing grass, parents with baby strollers, dawdling toddlers, and little tykes on bikes. Be kind and courteous as we all share the same pavement or grass.

“On greenways or multi-use paths, cyclists should always yield to pedestrians and give an audible warning when passing,” says Scott Curry, Active Transportation Coordinator for the city of Charlotte. “Ring your bell or announce, ‘Passing on your left.'” Make sure you give your warning with enough distance for others to move right without being startled.

Being polite when passing goes a long way. Remember that most people are outdoors for the journey, not the destination.

The Shared Streets initiative limits cars on three (and possibly more, later) stretches of road popular with bikes and pedestrians, but the same rules apply. Safety is also a priority where cars may still be present, because even Shared Streets are open to emergency vehicles and residents who live on the street.

“Whether you’re on foot or on bike, never assume that a driver is going to yield to you. Always remain vigilant,” says Curry. “Follow traffic signals. Try to make eye contact with drivers at intersections.” Curry also reminds us to wear bright or reflective colors when riding in low light, and have good lights and reflectors on the front and back of our bikes.

And keep in mind that Shared Streets is not an excuse or a location for a street party. Their purpose is to give us room to get moving, not stay in one place. “This is a time to bring out the longboard, not the hammock,” advises the city’s website, so don’t linger. If you want to stop and chat, please move off the path. (And maintain that safe social distance.)

A number of new greenway sections have opened, too, and that allows us to spread out a little more. Take advantage of the room to hike or bike, but again, keep your distance.

And no spitting, please. We know COVID-19 and all kinds of other germs can spread through the air as aerosolized particles. Do your part by covering your cough or sneeze, and keeping your spit to yourself.

It all seems a lot, but remember kindness and courtesy goes a lot way right now. Enjoy the weather. Enjoy the Parks and Greenways. Enjoy the Shared Streets. Give each other room, wash your hands, wear a mask, and stay safe!