New Milford will we be opening Lynn Deming Park for swimming and other recreational opportunities today. The park will have reduced capacity due to social distancing guidelines.  It will be open to New Milford residents only, on a first come first serve basis.  Picnic tables will be locked up.  Beach goers must be 15 feet from the next set of beach goers.  Lifeguards will be checking social distancing compliance. 

Instead of the traditional restroom facilities, only port-o-potties will be available.  Mayor Pete Bass says that's due to sanitization requirements.  He says the town does not have the staff available to clean bathrooms after every use.  As the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has done at coastal beaches, port-o-potties were installed and are sanitized by the company.

New Milford invested in security measures a few years ago, which Bass says will help track the number of people in the park.  The Park Ranger, a security team and Parks and Rec staff will make sure all rules are being followed.

Lynn Deming will also have reduced hours.  If there's a spike in COVID-related confirmed cases or   hospitalizations, Bass says he will have the ability to change or close the park. 

Playgrounds will also be opened, with youth sports eligible to use the facilities.  Guidance will be send to youth sports groups.