NOVA Parks News

By Paul Gilbert, Executive Director

It happened from the very beginning, as shopping centers, gyms and restaurants closed in the last half of March and news spread about the pandemic, people started gathering in parks. At first this was concerning and many of the parks in the region closed their gates to prevent groups of more than 10 from congregating.

Eventually restrictions eased, and understanding grew. We learned that outside is one of the safest places, leading people to seek out parks and outdoor activities.

Already popular trails like the W&OD, became even more loved, with peak day usage going up 200-500%. Formerly quiet trails like the Bull Run/Occoquan Trail, became teaming with hikers looking for some fresh air and nature. Golf is busier than it has been in decades, as the perfect socially distanced sport.  With other vacation plans not viable, many have turned to camping and boating as great family getaways close to home. Good luck trying to buy a new bicycle, kayak, or camper these days, as you can expect to be on a waiting list.

 

This move to outdoor exercise, recreation, and entertainment is one of the many silver linings to the pandemic. Many are rediscovering the joys of the outdoors, and hopefully will remember these experiences long after the pandemic.

Adapting to changing uses is a little like turning a battleship. It takes consistent effort and some patience to affect change. But bold changes are underway.

Work has begun in the Falls Church section of the W&OD Trail. The rebuild will provide separate lanes for pedestrians and cyclists resulting in a trail that can accommodate the growing use. After the Falls Church section is built, work will start to affect similar improvements in Arlington.

Meadowlark Gardens has seen a 100% increase in garden visitation. On October 20th we cut a ribbon on the new Volgenau Conservancy, a new and beautiful glasshouse that was fully funded by the Volgenau Foundation. This new feature will be enjoyed by garden visitors for decades to come. To help during this time, the popular Winter Walk of Lights at Meadowlark will start early this year on November 11th, with new measures to provide socially distance, and no-touch experience for those that buy their tickets online. And the super-safe drive through Festival of Lights at Bull Run starts on November 6th, also with online ticketing this year. Ice & Lights- The Winter Village at Cameron Run will also return with online ticketing.

Beyond specific programs and facilities, parks have all seen significantly higher “passive” use. These are people walking trails, picnicking, and enjoying nature. To address this significant demand for open spaces, NOVA Parks dedicated new parkland on the water at Pohick Bay Regional Park on October 17th. Other new areas of parkland will be added in the next year.

Adding new lands, building or upgrading popular facilities, and updating programs to make them more COVID-19 safe, these are the steps that help parks remain our refuge during difficult times. Be safe, and enjoy the outdoors.