Enjoy city parks as weather warms this spring

The Oak Ridge Recreation and Parks Department is working hard to prepare our award-winning parks and greenways for spring, officials said.

“After many days of cold weather and snow, sunshine and warmer temperatures will be drawing folks outside very soon,” a press release said. “This means more people will be utilizing our parks and greenway trails. To assure the safety of all of our visitors, it is especially important that everyone follow the posted rules.”

Please keep these rules in mind as you are out on our greenways and trails:

• Wear your bicycle helmet and inspect your bike before venturing out on the trail.
• Share the greenway; be considerate of all users. Pedestrians and handicapped individuals have the right of way.
• Keep to the right side of the greenway and ride single file when others are present. When passing, sound an audible warning (bell or horn) and pass on the left.
• If you stop, step off the greenway to avoid collisions or congestion.
• Turn down the volume on earphones so that you can hear other greenway users.
• Keep dogs on a leash and clean up after your pet.
• Call 911 to report crime.
• Horses, motorized vehicles, and skateboards are prohibited. Motorized wheelchairs are allowed.
• Prevent vandalism by taking your valuables with you or by locking them in the trunk of your vehicle.

Oak Ridge is a two-time honoree as a Playful City USA community that currently offers more than 66 miles of greenways and trails, 10 playgrounds, and more than 1,500 acres of green space inside the city limits. For more information, visit the Recreation and Parks Department’s website at orrecparks.org or call them at (865) 425-3450.