Will Tumamoc Hill Be Closed Again?

By Steve Kosachik – Ward 6, Council Member 

When the pandemic hit us in full force, the UA was forced to shut down Tumamoc Hill to walkers/joggers. That happened on March 18th.  It’s an extremely popular place for people to go out and get some exercise. The shutdown was because, given the number of people out enjoying the trek, social distancing became impossible and people were not following the CDC guidelines related to mask wearing.  

On Memorial Day, the UA reopened the trail, with the caveat that social distancing was still important. I mentioned in the Sports and COVID section that the behavior of the public will play a part in how sporting activities resume, if at all.  The same is true on Tumamoc. Rules announcing masks and social distancing were posted along Tumamoc; masks are required and keeping a 6’ distance between others is as well.  

Unfortunately, this is typical of what we’re seeing up there on a regular basis now: 

Nobody wants to shut down Tumamoc again. But with the escalating numbers in COVID infections, doing that is becoming about the only option they have if people don’t start to abide by the rules.  

Being outdoors is great. I’m out running and walking every day. But even out on the Loop where we don’t see crowds like this, I’ve got a neck gaiter on that I can pull up when people get too close. The UA does not have the staffing available to monitor enforcement on Tumamoc. I share this item in the newsletter to ask your cooperation, self-policing and gentle assistance in letting others know that if you’re on Tumamoc, the rules are posted for a reason. Here’s the message: Closing Tumamoc once again may be the only option left to the UA if people using the hill for their mental and physical exercise don’t begin to comply with the COVID rules.  

Please help us pass that word. Wear a mask and if the hill is overstuffed with people when you arrive, find another place to get your workout. The concerns have been raised both by administration, and by others who are in fact complying with the rules. Everyone loses if everyone doesn’t get with the program.