WESTFIELD – Westfield’s public parks and recreational spaces opened on May 25 while the city continues to reopen as statewide coronavirus restrictions are relaxed.

Department of Public Works Director David Billips, Assistant Director Fran Cain and Parks and Recreation Deputy Superintendent Scott Hathaway stated in a letter that the public parks and open spaces such as bike trails were made available for passive use such as walking, jogging, biking, or leisure activities under a new set of safety guidelines.

“As we navigate through these uncertain times together as a community, the Parks and Recreation Department is working closely with Mayor [Don] Humason’s Office, [Public Health Director] Joe Rouse, [and] the Public Health Department and looking forward to the next Governor’s orders of phrase 2 on June 8,” the letter read.

Under phase 1 of Gov. Charlie Baker’s reopening plan, parks were allowed to reopen under certain guidelines starting May 25. Other recreational activities, including some youth sports programming, day camps and outdoor performances are permitted to open as part of phase 2.

All visitors to the parks and other designated areas of open space are required to wear masks when social distancing is not possible in accordance with Baker’s May 1 order. The order requires any person over the age of 2 to wear a face covering or mask when maintaining six feet of distance between themselves and others is not possible. Those with a medical condition preventing them from doing so are exempt.

Also in accordance with Baker’s guidelines, groups must be no larger than 10 people.

Pavilion reservations and sporting events remain suspended. Basketball courts, bathrooms and spray parks are still closed until further notice.

The Parks and Recreation Department encouraged residents to look for additional updates at www.cityofwestfield.org. Program information and registration is currently available at westfieldmaparksrec.com. Registrations may also be sent via mail or at the office’s drop-off box.