Special to Iredell Free News

The Iredell County Parks and Recreation Department has suspended all programs, classes, group reservations and events through April 30 to protect the community from COVID-19.

The department “cares deeply about the health of our communities, participants, members, and employees and we are keeping a close eye on the development, science, and all information available on the spread of the Corona Virus (COVID-19),” according to a statement released Monday. “Our intention is not to overreact from a position of undue fear or alarm, and we want to be proactive and be responsive to help in any way we can. With that in mind, we join many other state and local agencies with suggested recommendations and mitigation guidance.

The department will continue to monitor conditions and recommendations and keep citizens informed of changes.

“At this time, we are taking extra measures to increase disinfecting of common areas so our parks and facilities can remain open, but urge citizens to follow mitigation guidance, including frequent hand washing, social distancing, staying home if you feel ill or sick, and taking extra precautions if you are in a high-risk category,” the statement said.