Sit, stay, picnic — Costa Mesa officials expand use options at most city parks

Individuals and members of the same household may now officially sit, catch their breaths and even enjoy picnics at Costa Mesa parks, after city officials recently expanded its list of activities permitted at city-owned parks.

Closed to the visiting public in March in response to a growing coronavirus pandemic, select parks began reopening in late April and early May to walking/jogging, bicycling and other pass-through uses. Visitors, however, were still prohibited from stopping, sitting or engaging in public gatherings, in accordance with state guidelines and protocols.

Under orders issued by city officials on Friday, individuals and those who live in the same household may now sit, read and picnic at most parks, as long as they wear face coverings and maintain 6 feet of physical distance from people living in other households.

Director of Parks and Community Services Yvette Aguilar said the relaxation of the rules applies to most of the 30 park facilities operated and maintained by the city. Certain portions of Fairview Park, along with the city’s Skate Park and Dog Park, will remain closed.

Park amenities, facilities and other “touch points� — such as playgrounds, restrooms, picnic shelter areas and sports courts — will also remain closed to the public until further notice. Pet owners are asked to keep their dogs on leashes while visiting parks.

Aguilar said the decision to expand park uses was made with input from the city manager and city attorney’s offices, Costa Mesa’s Parks & Community Services Department and feedback from the City Council’s Parks, Arts and Community Services Commission.

“We are monitoring the phased reopening plans from the state and county level and will adhere to that guidance as appropriate and applicable,� Aguilar said by email. “The goal is to lift restrictions in a manner that’s consistent with local and state public health official guidance.�

Costa Mesa City Councilwoman Sandy Genis, who’s repeatedly advocated for reopening park lands for the mental health benefits they provide, said she’s pleased renters and families without their own yards will have places to recreate.

“Imagine being in a small apartment with no air-conditioner and not being able to go to a park,� Genis said Monday, as daytime temperatures reached 90 degrees. “Now, you can go to Victoria [Vista] Park, where I think there’s enough room for people to space out and catch a breeze. On a day like today, that’s a perfect place to be.�

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