News Flash

Due to the Fourth of July holiday and amid the continuing COVID-19 pandemic, Durham Parks and Recreation (DPR) is anticipating a higher volume of people visiting the parks for some fun in the sun.

Visiting West Point on the Eno

With the cancelation of Durham’s annual Festival on the Eno, DPR specifically expects a large number of park users at West Point on the Eno Park this weekend. For this reason, safety measures and additional monitoring will be implemented at the park.

Staff will be on-site to control parking, traffic flow and direct patrons to access to the river. Limited parking is available with 112 designated parking spaces that do not impede traffic flow. Because of these limitations, staff will monitor and limit vehicular access to the park and once the parking capacity has been reached will close the entrance until additional parking becomes available.

No Parking Signs and boulders have been installed along the Park Loop to ensure that the road remains clear and passable to all park users and Emergency Service Vehicles should the need arise.  

In addition, patrons who are planning to come to the park to access the Eno River, will no longer be able to unload your vehicle near the River or Mill Area.

Park Rules and Safety

While DPR encourages outdoor play, we ask residents to exercise safe and responsible park/trail usage guidelines outlined in the state and local safer-at-home orders limiting the number of people in mass gatherings. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) recommends residents practice the 3Ws by wearing a cloth covering over their nose and mouth; waiting 6 feet apart to avoid close contact; and washing their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer.

Please keep in mind that the following standard park rules apply and will be enforced during this busy weekend:  

• Park Hours: Dawn to Dusk
• Fireworks on City-owned land are not allowed
• Possession and consumption of Alcoholic Beverages are prohibited. (Except as approved by City Ordinance Sec. 38-21)
• Durham County pet owners are required to keep their animals under restraint when they’re away from their property
• Parking is allowed in designated parking areas only. No motorized vehicles allowed on the grass or pathways.

July is Park and Recreation Month

This month, DPR will observe Park and Recreation Month, and the theme is, "We are Parks and Recreation." The goal is to celebrate the selfless, passionate, and essential work and recreation professionals who provide services that are vital to a healthy community.  

"Safety is our top priority," said Interim DPR Director Joy Guy. "While we hope that you enjoy the Durham’s parks and trails this weekend and beyond, we ask that you consider the health and safety of your neighbors, family, and friends."

About Durham Parks and Recreation

Durham Parks and Recreation provides opportunities for the Durham community to Play More by connecting our whole community to wellness, the outdoors, and lifelong learning. To learn more about Durham Parks and Recreation, visit us online, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, or call (919) 560-4355.