Austin Parks & Rec to expand monitored access at day pass parks

AUSTIN, Texas - The Austin Parks & Recreation Department will be expanding monitored access at day pass parks around Austin beginning Thursday.

PARD has been monitoring capacity at Emma Long Metropolitan Park, Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park, and Walter E. Long Metropolitan Park since May 8, allowing the department to promote safe park usage during the city's modified operations.

Beginning May 21, park staff will be monitoring walk-in/cyclist capacity at these three parks. Once capacity is reached, the department says no additional walk-ins/cyclists will be allowed. Signage will be also be posted to educate visitors.

PARD says walk-ins/cyclists will move to a day pass system in the coming weeks, and a date will be announced when the system is operational.

Since May 14, a vehicle day pass has been required to visit these parks. This pass is available online or by calling 512-974-6797, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., excluding holidays. Regular entry fees apply for Emma Long and Walter E. Long parks. Commons Ford entry remains free but requires a pass. No entry is granted without a day pass reservation, including Memorial Day.

RELATED: Day passes will be required at some Austin parks

Visitors admitted to these parks do not have “in-and-out” privileges. PARD says patrons should come prepared to stay until they are ready to leave.

No parking is allowed on the right-of-way outside these parks. Visitors are reminded to reserve day passes and only park in designated parking areas.

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PARD says it will continue to monitor park capacity and modify operations as needed. Additional information regarding the modified operations, closures, and online registration will be made available on the PARD website.

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