New painted hearts in downtown parks encourage social distancing

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Painted hearts have began popping up in two downtown parks this week to encourage people to "love their parks" in a safe, physically distance way.

According to a news release, the initiative celebrates two events, the first being the Downtown Employee Appreciation Week organized by Milwaukee Downtown BID #21, and the second event being the Love Your Parks campaign, organized by Milwaukee County Parks.

"Each year, Downtown Employee Appreciation Week draws in thousands to our downtown parks for free lunches and office challenge games," says Beth Weirick, CEO of Milwaukee Downtown, BID #21. "While this year's event reflects health and safety guidelines, we've found new ways to express our gratitude to downtown's 93,000 employees and 30+ acres of parks and green spaces, especially with our new social distancing hearts at Cathedral Square Park and Pere Marquette Park." 

The Love Your Parks campaign wants to hear from Milwaukeeans on why they love their parks through the hashtag #loveyourparksmke. 

Guy Smith, Executive Director of Milwaukee County Parks said “We know that Milwaukee residents really need their parks and trails – particularly during this time of pandemic - and usage has skyrocketed over the spring and summer. Right now though, our parks are in desperate need of some love too. These painted hearts are another fun way to bring attention to our Love Your Parks campaign.”