Part Of Sligo Creek Parkway To Be Reserved For Recreational Use

SILVER SPRING, MD — Montgomery Parks will be closing portions of Sligo Creek Parkway to vehicular traffic next month to accommodate the demand for more recreational space during the coronavirus pandemic.

The parkway from New Hampshire Avenue to Piney Branch Road will be reserved for outdoor recreational use from April 3 to 5.

"At a time when residents are eager for more outdoor recreational space and vehicular traffic is lower because of the effects of COVID-19, we want to expand access to our parks system in this densely populated area," said Mike Riley, director of Montgomery Parks. "Sunday closure of Sligo Creek Parkway has been incredibly popular for years, and by expanding the closure residents will have more space to walk, bike and be outdoors safely with their families. We will monitor Parkway usage on Fridays and Saturdays during the month of April and then reassess these closures."

On Monday, Gov. Larry Hogan issued a a stay-at-home order due to what he called a "rapidly escalating emergency situation." The order takes effect at 8 p.m. Monday, March 30.

According to the order, people can still engage in outdoor activities — like walking, running, hiking, and biking. However, gatherings must be restricted to no more than 10 people.

Patch has reached out to Montgomery Parks to see how it will affect these parkway closures. An official confirmed that the parkway will still be open for outdoor recreational use.