By Morgan Pilz, Staff Writer

(May 14, 2020) Berlin Mayor Gee Williams announced the reopening of Heron Park last Wednesday, following Gov. Larry Hogan’s address that afternoon.

Heron Park, on 10009 Old Ocean City Blvd, is now available to the public seeking exercise and some fresh air.

Photo by Morgan Pilz
Heron Park officially reopened for public use on Wednesday, May 6, by Berlin Mayor Gee Williams following an address from Gov. Larry Hogan.

“I decided to open Heron Park immediately after Gov. Hogan’s address to the public,” Williams said. “Heron park meets all the criteria – an open park space with limited outdoor areas. The park isn’t holding any events at this time and most of the groups who go there are small. Heron Park is ideally suited at this given time.”

However, Stephen Decatur and Henry parks, which have playgrounds and other equipment, will remain closed until further notice.

“With the playground equipment, it would be very hard to manage little children during this time,” Williams said. “The governor allows tennis and other activities, however, our tennis court at Stephen Decatur is directly in the middle of the park … it would be impractical to reopen just the courts, so it made sense to wait a little longer.

“We put a lot of money into the courts last year,” he continued. “We have done a lot of work, so we hope people are pleased with what they see and enjoy the tennis courts without reservations.”

Town Administrator Jeff Fleetwood is also pleased with the decision to reopen Heron Park.

“I have not heard a lot of comments, but the ones that I have heard, people are glad that it’s open because it gives them a chance to go back down and enjoy the springtime weather,” he said. “I’m personally glad it’s open, so that people can go down and enjoy it. It’s as clean as it’s ever been down there and if citizens have any concerns or comments about anything down there, give us a call.”

All personal safety and social distancing requirements will still remain in effect. These measures include wearing masks and maintaining at least six feet of distance from others as well as limiting groups of people to no more than 10 per gathering. Pets with leashes will also be allowed at Heron Park.

For more information, call 410-641-2770.