The tents that once hosted COVID-19 testing sites at Glen Island Park in New Rochelle are gone as the park reopened to the public today.

Back in March 2020, New Rochelle detected its first case of COVID-19 and quickly became the epicenter of the pandemic.

Glen Island, normally a place of refuge and celebration, was then called into action, housing mass drive-thru testing tents that processed nearly 600 cars a day. The testing tents were taken down Friday and the park is getting back to its intended use for Westchester residents.

New Rochelle residents, like Charles Banks, remember the grave impact COVID-19 had on their city just one year ago. Banks says he hopes the city can put that painful past behind them. 

"COVID season, it's still here, but it's ending and more people are getting vaccinated,” he said. “…The park opening – it opens that opportunity that families can get together…and just show the love."

Parking will be available starting at $5 with a park pass and $10 without one.