BIKING AND WALKING RESOURCES DURING COVID-19

Written By Rachel Hollar


Greetings,

This is a frustrating and confusing time for everyone and life looks a little different every day. On one hand, we’re being told to stay home as much as possible. On the other hand, we’re being told to stay active to help boost immunity. We’re here to help and inform you that, for now, bicycling and walking is still a safe and enjoyable way to reduce stress, get exercise, and run necessary errands or get to work, while maintaining a safe distance from other people.

The Bike Walk Macon team is working remotely and practicing social distancing, but we’re also staying active and enjoying some time outdoors. I’m taking daily walks in Tattnall Square Park and Mercer University’s campus. Koryn, our Engagement Coordinator, walks in Rosehill Cemetary, paying homage to those who have passed, while also getting in her daily steps. Sally, our intern, soaks up the sun and gets outside by reading on her campus’s green space. We’ve found a great balance between getting fresh air and staying active, while also following coronavirus guidelines and precautions. And while we’re all enjoying the opportunity to spend some extra time at home, our mission hasn’t changed - we’re still working hard every day to create a more bikeable, walkable Macon-Bibb County for all!

We hope that this page of tips and resources that our intern put together will be helpful. We also encourage you, first and foremost, to follow CDC guidelines and to stay informed and up to date on local and national news. We’ll continue to update our page, so if you come across a resource or article that you think we should share, send it our way by emailing hello@bikewalkmacon.com.

Warm regards,

Rachel Umana

Executive Director, Bike Walk Macon

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN GA?

Both the state of Georgia and Macon-Bibb County have released several updates on how they are handling the situation. Governor Kemp has set in place several regulations in regard to personal movement and public spaces. There shall not be any gatherings over 10 people unless you can maintain 6 feet apart and bars and nightclubs are to be closed during this time. People who are deemed medically fragile, ie. immunocompromised persons, persons with preexisting health concerns, and persons of elderly status should self- quarantine themselves until April 6th to mitigate exposure to the virus.

As of April 3rd a Shelter in Place order was released by Kemp. It is slated to last until April 30, but could be extended if necessary. In addition to the closure of bars and nightclubs, this order mandated the closure of less essential businesses, such as bowling alleys, theaters, live performance venues, gyms, and others. Restaurants can stay open for takeout or curbside pickup, but cannot continue dine in service. Only critical and essential businesses are to remain open. However, people are still allowed outside for exercise and leisure as long as they follow the social distancing guidelines of 6 foot distance and no gatherings larger than 10 people unless the 6 foot distance can be maintained. 

On the more local side, Macon Transit Authority has deemed transportation via the public bus system free for all with the stipulation that all passengers to submit a within range temperature check before boarding the bus. On March 23rd, Mayor Reichert declared a local state of emergency for Macon-Bibb County until April 6, 2020. The Order states, among other things, that:

  • all public or private gatherings (exceptions listed in the Order) of more than ten people are prohibited;

  • restaurants shall close to the public except to provide take out, delivery, drive-through, or curbside service;

  • bars, taverns, and similar establishments are to be closed;

  • restaurants licensed to sell beer or wine may offer to sell sealed bottles to customers to go;

  • body care services which require physical contact between the provider and client are closed;

  • indoor recreation facilities are closed;

  • business license deadlines are extended through May 6th;

  • all special event permits are cancelled;

  • retail, commercial, and industrial establishments can remain open provided they make restrictions on the number of people and steps taken for social distancing in order to protect employees and the public.

FLATTENING THE CURVE 

Besides our local mandates, there are many ways that we can individually work towards flattening the curve. Flattening of the curve will help lessen the chance of overwhelming our health care centers. To help flatten the curve, we must maintain daily social distancing. Social distancing means staying as self-contained as possible within your own home or a secure space and only going into public areas out of necessity. When in public spaces, you should try to distance yourself as much as possible from others. At the least, you should be six feet away from another person. Out of social distancing, attendance at any social gathers should be avoided. If possible, it is encouraged to work from home to avoid unnecessary contact. If you do need to enter a public space, it is important to wash your hands once you leave that space and avoid touching your face. And above all, it is important to remember to be kind to others during this time of confusion and panic. 

More info about flattening the curve >>

BIKING AND WALKING 

While it is important to maintain social distancing from others, don’t forget that it is also possible to continue biking and walking if you feel comfortable. If you are in need of places to walk or bike reference our resources tab at our website. Follow both the habits to flatten the curve and recommendations from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) when outside. The NRPA released several good tips that we listed below: 

  • Refrain from using parks or trails if you are exhibiting symptoms.

  • Follow CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene prior to and during use of parks or trails.

  • Prepare for limited access to public restrooms or water fountains.

  • While on trails, warn other users of your presence and as you pass, and step aside to let others pass.

  • Follow CDC guidance on the recommended size of social gatherings including outdoor picnicking, pick-up sports and other group hangouts, and maintain proper physical distance at all times.

  • Observe CDC’s minimum recommended social distancing of 6 feet from other individuals at all times. If this is not possible, users should find an alternate location or depart that space.

  • Consult local and state ordinances and guidelines for the most up to date recommendations on park and trail use. 

covid19-urban-parks-high-resolution.jpg

Source: NRPA

RESOURCES 

There are many resources that provide updates on the CoronaVirus, in the US and worldwide, and resources that provide tips on how to spend time outside in a safe manner. Listed below are credible articles and websites that you can use to stay updated and aware.

Coronavirus Websites and Articles  

More Tips and Articles on Biking and Walking 

Rachel Hollar
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