To stop the spread of the Coronavirus COVID-19, Harris County has taken a precautionary measure to close its parks during the Easter weekend.

The closures are necessary because it will be extremely difficult to practice social distancing during one of the busiest weekends for Harris County parks.

“We all realize that people will be seeking green space to celebrate Easter with egg hunts and other activities,” Commissioner Rodney Ellis said. “However, we all fear that the critical social distancing necessary to stop the virus spread cannot be followed when hundreds of people crowd into our parks.”

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo issued an order Wednesday to close the county parks because of increased chances of spreading the virus in overcrowded parks. The parks will be closed from 8 p.m. Thursday, April 9 to 8 a.m. Monday, April 13.

“As an avid bike rider, I enjoy riding throughout Houston and Harris County, especially on the weekend,” Commissioner Ellis said. “But to protect the progress we have made against COVID-19, closing the parks this weekend is necessary. If you are walking or cycling in your neighborhood, please observe social distancing. We must all work together to fight the spread of COVID-19.”