Coronavirus: Charleston Falls Preserve closed due to overcrowding

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Charleston Falls Preserve is closed after overcrowding made it difficult for physical distancing, according to the Miami County Park District.

The closure was effective starting at 12:01 a.m. today. It is not clear when it will reopen.

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“While we regret having to close the park, our priority is to keep staff and visitors safe. Unfortunately, with the heavy use we’ve seen at Charleston Falls over the past few weeks public safety is a significant concern.” MCPD Executive Director J. Scott Myers said. “As of now the other MCPD parks will remain open so people can reap the physical and mental benefits of being outdoors."

Additional safety measures may be taken if overcrowding worsens as the weather gets better.

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A stay-at-home order issued by Gov. Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Health Director Amy Acton does allow people to go outside for exercise. However, DeWine said he was considering an additional order after receiving reports of people congregating at parks.

MCPD asks all visitors to follow coronavirus orders and be mindful of crowding. They encourage people to consider alternate, closer-to-home options to get outside, including their own backyards or neighborhoods.

Visitors should try to use less frequented parks or trails to prevent overcrowding and avoid peak visitation times. They should keep a distance of at least 6 feet from others and avoid groups of more than 10 people.

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If a location is busy, they should try a different place.

Anyone showing any symptoms of coronavrius or who’s been exposed to the virus should stay home.

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