ITHACA, NY (WENY) -- Obtaining a mask can be difficult with the demand being so high, that's why a few Ithaca City leaders handed some out this evening. Svante along with Police Chief Nayor and Ithaca City Fire Chief Tom Parsons gathered at Stewart park this evening to had out free masks to park goers.

"We are out here encouraging people to get some sun, to get some recreation, to enjoy themselves but to keep maintaining social distance and good public health measures by wearing masks," said Mayor Myrick.

Thy were also out to show wearing a mask is not just for yourself.

Mayor Myrick said, "We want to make sure, even as we open up,  we want people to take care of themselves and to take care of all the members in their family and to remember that you wear a mask not just for yourself but you wear a mask for everybody in your community."

It was important to the city leaders to get out because it shows that they are in the same boat as everyone else.

Police Chief Dennis Nayor said, "They are challenging for all of us we want to let you know we feel that it is not something we are used to but we are expecting people to wear it so we are wearing them as well, and like you can even hear, my voice is a little muffled and it takes a little getting used to but I think if people see us doing it they'll understand we are not asking people to do things we are not as well."

Myrick also says just because the state could open up on the 15th, doesn't mean this is all over.

"If the state opens up on the 15th,  it's not because we have a vaccine, and it's not because we have a good treatment plan, it's because we flattened the curve and we have space in our hospitals. Tat doesn't mean that the virus is gone. So, we still need everybody to wear masks, to avoid close contact with each other, maintain 6 feet of distance and if you know you won't be able to do that, don't leave home without your mask."

The Ithaca City leaders would like to says that they are happy that people are using the park, and staying active but continue to adhere to the CDC guidelines so you can ensure your and everyone else's safety.