The proposal will be discussed during the Transportation Commission’s virtual meeting on Wednesday. If the response is favorable, Callaway said, traffic modifications could begin by the end of the week, and then roll out in phases.

“Though the weather still isn’t too great right now, it’s only going to get better, so we want to start implementing this soon,” she said.

Finding a balance

Meanwhile, path users can take precautions to maintain that 6-foot buffer.

Here’s what Safdar recommends: If a path is crowded, don’t use it. If you’re approaching somebody on the sidewalk and there isn’t enough space, change direction, walk on the grass, or cross the street. And if you’re walking with somebody in your household, go single file rather than side-by-side to provide others with enough room to pass.

“The question has come up whether it’s OK to take a walk with somebody who’s not a member of your family or living with you,” Safdar said, “and I think that’s also problematic because instances may occur where you can’t maintain that social distancing. That’s how transmission happens.”