As the countdown to Easter weekend begins, the City of Lockhart is reminding the public to stay home and stay safe during the holiday weekend.

Lockhart’s city parks are typically popular destinations for large holiday gatherings, but Mayor Lew White is asking residents to remember that current city, county and statewide orders prohibit social gatherings of any size.

The parks remain open to allow people to exercise, but caution tape has been placed around all pavilions and playground equipment to discourage groups from congregating. This is being done to help slow the risk of spreading COVID-19, which the CDC says can live on hard surfaces for multiple days.

“You can still go out for a walk, stretch your legs and get some fresh air as an individual or with your immediate family,” White said. “We thank you in advance for helping us keep your families and your neighbors safe by eating your holiday meal at home and holding your Easter Egg hunts in your back yard.”

The county has extended its Stay Home, Stay Safe order through April 30, mirroring the duration of Gov. Greg Abbott’s statewide “Essential Services and Essential Activities” order. The City Council passed a resolution on Tuesday extending its local state of disaster declaration that supports the orders of both the county and state. A list of essential services and activities can be found here: http://www.co.caldwell.tx.us/upload/page/9892/FAQs_stayhomestaysafeorder.pdf

“Your children and grandchildren may argue that the Easter Bunny is an essential worker, but going to the park for an egg hunt or a barbecue is not an essential activity,” White said.

If you do plan on taking a walk in the park over Easter weekend, the mayor emphasized the importance of making sure you remember to practice social distancing.

“When out, please keep at least six feet between you and any other person not in your household,” the mayor said. “We wish everyone a safe and happy Easter.”