Covid-19 has many people itching to get out of the house for some outdoor activity. Cleveland County residents have long enjoyed the many outdoor exercise opportunities offered by the Broad River Greenway (BRG). Recent changes by the local government have curtailed some of those options for the time being, but other recreational activities are still available.

"The most recent changes include closing the south side of the park entirely," says Kim Duren, BRG executive director. "The north side of the park is open for trail use only, and beaches are closed."

One thing to keep in mind as you are planning your trip to the Greenway is that the park currently has a 50-car maximum. Once the lot has 50 cars, the gates are closed and no other cars can come in until others come out. Officers will be assisting with maintaining capacity limits and monitoring trails.

"This has been frustrating for some people who didn't realize the situation ahead of time," says Greenway Ranger Lance Rollins. Rollins just started in his job as ranger in June following the retirement of long-time Ranger Reid Jolly.

"As you would expect, the lot fills up really quickly on the weekends," says Rollins. "But weekdays are much more open. We have a very steady stream of people during the week."

Duren asks that visitors abide by the rules.

"We ask everyone to please help us stay open and available to the public by cooperating with these limits," says Duren.

Another thing that potential visitors need to be aware of is the park's current operating hours.

"Gates open at 10 a.m. and are locked at 8 p.m. each evening," says Duren. "Cars locked in the lot will be unavailable until gates open the next morning at 10 a.m. This just makes it easier for us to stay ahead of the crowd."

Once you have made it into the park, there are still plenty of outdoor activities. With more than 15 miles of trails, the park is an excellent place to hike, bike (non-motorized bikes only) or go horseback riding.

"Visitors can help the Greenway stay open by social distancing and being respectful of others who are sharing the trails," says Duren.

Restrooms at the BRG are open, and cleaning is taking place as often as possible.

"We just ask people to be courteous and to please wash their hands," says Duren.

For more information on these and other activities available at the Greenway, email Duren at kduren@broadrivergreenway.com, visit the BRG web site at www.broadrivergreenway.com or call 704-434-0040.