Winston-Salem officials have scaled back a proposal to tighten rules in city parks, eliminating two of the most controversial restrictions.
City staff had originally suggested prohibiting camping in all 83 parks, reducing operating hours to daylight only and banning large bags. But after council members warned those measures could be perceived as targeting people who are unhoused, staff reworked the proposal.
At a meeting on Monday, Assistant City Manager Ben Rowe said the latest draft removes the camping and baggage provisions and would allow well-lit areas — like tennis courts — to stay open after sunset.
“The purpose of the code of conduct is to ensure the safety of our parks, but also to make sure that the parks are truly accessible to all individuals,” he said.
The measure still includes funding for signs outlining the new rules, at a cost of $75,000.
The updated proposal is expected to come up for a vote before the end of the year.