Should Chatham County reopen their playgrounds?

Pittsboro reopened their parks on Friday, but have kept their playgrounds closed.

My question is:  Should Pittsboro playgrounds and other playgrounds in Chatham County be reopened?

I bring this question up as the start of a community discussion on the subject matter. Please don’t simply send in an email into the Chatlist that says “OMG, our kids are going to die.” (you can send those to me privately). Please take the time to voice your reasoning for why you think it is a good idea or a bad idea.

As someone who is a comfortable with numbers, I see that the survival rate for people in North Carolina under 24 who might contract the coronavirus is 100%. Chatham County has 495 laboratory-confirmed cases with 24 deaths.

There are no coronavirus deaths in Chatham County for those 24 years old or younger.

I’m especially interested in hearing from grandparents as well as parents. (If you don’t feel comfortable responding on the Chatlist, email me privately)

Below is an article on the subject matter. I’m interested in getting a more local Chathamcentric perspective.

A plea from Dr. Adrian Gaty, a pediatrician in Texas – please let your kids play with their friends!

Parents, do the right thing: kick the kids out of the house. Public health officials: support parents in their efforts to keep their kids healthy by keeping them social. Communities: reopen your youth groups, sports leagues, daycares, and schools.

https://www.ctpgt.com/post/plea-for-the-children

Date: Fri, 15 May 2020 19:54:45 -0400
From: Gene Galin
Subject: Should Chatham County reopen their playgrounds?