Beginning Monday, February 28, and in accordance with the removal of certain restrictions from State and Cook County public health officials, the Tinley Park-Park District will no longer require individuals to wear masks or show proof of vaccination while visiting Tinley Park-Park District facilities. This includes all programs and activities conducted by the park district.
It is still recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) that all individuals consider wearing a mask based on their own personal risk factors. Tinley Park-Park District staff will support the decision of all patrons regarding their choice of mask wearing and we ask that our community does the same.
Mask wearing and proof of vaccinations are still required under executive orders through Sunday, February 27th. This operational update is subject to change as it may be necessary to comply with local, State and Federal COVID health and safety guidance. Should something change we will notify those effected ASAP.
THANK YOU for your continued support and patience over the last two years as we all navigated the pandemic. Sincerely, Shawn Roby Executive Director Tinley Park-Park District 708-342-4200
January 3, 2022
On December 31, 2021, the Cook County Department of Health published the Media Release below. Please watch for further clarifications as indicated at the end of the release. Youth sport supervisors will reach out to participants early this week and as necessary with future updates.
December 30, 2021
Effective January 3, 2022, the Cook County Department of Health Mitigation Order 2021-11 goes into effect. Provisions of the order affect the following Tinley Park-Park District patrons:
1. All active membership holders at Tinley Fitness and Tony Bettenhausen Recreation Center:
- Members must present their membership card.
- Be fully vaccinated with an approved Covid-19 Vaccine* and present proof of vaccination** to be allowed into the facility.
2. All sports participants, including coaches, age 5 and older ·
- Be fully vaccinated with an approved Covid-19 Vaccine* and present proof of vaccination** to be allowed into the facility.
3. All non-members who wish to participate in open gym / walking track as a Daily Fee user:
- Be fully vaccinated with an approved Covid-19 Vaccine* and present proof of vaccination** to be allowed into the facility.
4. Proofs of vaccination will not be kept on file.
5. Exception: Medical exemptions must present
- Documentation from a medical doctor stating the exemption
- And a negative test administered by a medical professional administered within 24 hour of visit.
6. All programs will continue as scheduled, unless participants are notified otherwise.
*An individual is considered to be fully vaccinated two weeks after the second dose Pfizer or Moderna Vaccines or one dose of Johnsons & Johnsons’ Janssen vaccine.
**Proof of vaccination includes:
- A CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card;
- Or An official immunization record from the jurisdiction, state, or country where the vaccine was administered;
- Or An ‘app’ that provides a digital record of vaccinations;
- Or A digital or physical photo of such a card or record that includes the individual’s name, the vaccine brand administered, and the date the vaccination was administered.
Self-Assessment Questionnaire
Please take this Self-Assessment Questionnaire before visiting any Tinley Park-Park District facility, program, athletic league or event. We appreciate your cooperation in our efforts to protect the health and safety of all of our patrons, program participants and employees.
August 10, 2021
The current mask guidance recommends that all individuals regardless of vaccination status wear a mask while indoors.
The Athletic Department will follow the All Sports Policy issued by IDPH on 8/10/2021. Click here to read the policy.
June 2, 2021
New Mask Guidance
Beginning today, the Tinley Park-Park District will align with the latest guidance issued by the CDC and the Illinois Department of Public Health. The following adjustments are effective immediately when utilizing Tinley Park-Park District facilities, parks and programs:
- Individuals who are not vaccinated are still required to wear a mask.
- Individuals ages 12 and older who have been fully vaccinated do not need to wear a mask indoors or outdoors, unless in close contact with children under age 12.
- Children under the age 2 to 12 must continue to wear a mask indoors or outdoors, along with the coaches and leaders of those programs.
- All other guidance as detailed for the Bridge Phase is still in effect.
The Park District will continue its increased safety and cleaning measures, including social distancing, throughout our facilities.
Please continue to wash your hands, self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 and stay home if you are feeling sick. Thank you for your patience as we work through these changes.
Effective immediately, park pavilion capacity is returned to the normal (pre-COVID) numbers. Please visit our Park Pavilion Permits page for details.
May 21, 2021
On Monday, Governor Pritzker announced the Bridge Phase of the Restore Illinois Plan, which includes mask guidance similar to the federal level suggesting that vaccinated people could remove their masks indoors and outdoors. The Bridge Phase also requires the Park District to follow the guidance provided by state agencies like DCEO and IDPH. We have followed this guidance since the beginning of this pandemic and will continue to do so. The guidelines by those agencies have not removed the mask mandate for those who are vaccinated and do not allow us to remove the mask requirements throughout our agency yet. We continue to monitor the guidelines for updates and as changes occur we will also update accordingly. Thank you for your continued cooperation.
March 2, 2021
White Water Canyon Water Park Operation Planning
The current planning for operating White Water Canyon Water Park is based on the 2020 guidelines from IDPH, CDC, Cook County Public Health and DCEO. We do anticipate the issuance of updated guidelines prior to our opening on June 5, 2021. As has been the case since last March, there may be many updates and changes throughout our planning.
For now, we know the following at this time:
- The facility can operate at 50% of standard capacity.
- Multiple groups of 50 guests are allowed as long as they are separated by 30 feet between each group.
- When guests are not in the water, masks need to be worn at all times in the facility.
- Our concession stand can open under DECO guidelines for bars/restaurants.
- Shared “equipment,” such as rafts, tubes, lounge chairs, etc., needs to be sanitized after use.
As always, we want to provide a fun and safe environment for all our guests at White Water Canyon Water Park. Our plans will be adapted as new guidelines come from the governing agencies and we will keep the public informed. As has been the case since last March, there may be many updates and changes throughout our planning. Thank you for your patience as we continue to work to make this a great swimming season!
Click here for the latest Restore Illinois guidelines. These apply to all activities at the Bettenhausen Recreation Center and Tinley Fitness.
We are now in Phase 4. Face masks, social distancing and frequent hand washing continue to be the protocol.
TPPD Basketball Court Covid Policies:
- Must be a member –NO DAILY DROP IN.
- Masks are required to be over the nose and mouth at all times.
- Time slots are for 50 minutes. At ten till the top of the hour, you must start preparing to leave or reserve another time block with the front desk if baskets are available.
- Members must scan in and out of the Recreation Center.
- Basket reservation are for you and members of your household. You must stay on the assigned court.
- No playing with or hanging out with friends or other households.
- Must bring your own Basketball.
- Locker-room are not available. *Subject to change*
- Before 4pm M-F, members under 18 must have an adult from their household with them.
- After 4pm M-F must be 10 years or older without an adult.
- Failure to follow rules will result in removal of the center for the day and possible suspension of pass.
January 22, 2021
Tier 2 mitigations are now in place for Region 10. You can read the mitigations here. In-person classes are now permitted with a maximum of 10 participants!
It is important to note that the new Tier 2 mitigations require the wearing of face masks at all times while exercising, walking and during live classes. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the health of our members and patrons has been at the center of all our efforts to safely offer as many programs and amenities as possible. To that end, we continue to follow the IDPH guidelines. If you have questions, please ask our staff.
January 13, 2021
2021 Tot Time Sneak Peeks
For the safety of staff, parents and children, and in light of current COVID-19 mitigations, we are postponing the Sneak Previews scheduled for February 13 and 20, 2021. Instead, On Saturday, March 27, parents make an appointment to meet with a teacher and see the rooms. Appointments must be made in advance.
To schedule an appointment, please call or email Kathleen Benson at 708-342-4202 or kathleen.benson@tinleyparkdistrict.org.
November 19, 2020
On November 17, Governor Pritzker announced a change to the Restore Illinois Mitigation plan: “With COVID-19 spread now exponential in every region of the state, statewide positivity rate at record highs and hospitalizations already surpassing the spring peak, all 11 regions will move into Tier 3 effective November 20, 2020 at 12:01am.” Below are the new mitigation protocols Tinley Park-Park District is instituting.
FACILITIES
Tinley Fitness:
- Starting Friday November 20 all group fitness classes are canceled until further notice. Classes scheduled for Wednesday 11/18 & Thursday 11/19 will proceed.
- Cardio & fitness floor maximum capacity is 47 people at one time. Reservations required**
- Locker area closed (bathrooms and access to pool remain open)
- Membership fees will not be adjusted.
- You may freeze your membership at any time. The fee to freeze will be waived.
- You may cancel your membership at any time.
- Masks are required at all times in the facility including while using the equipment.
Tony Bettenhausen Recreation Center
- Track use is now by reservation only. **
- Basketball court usage continues to be by reservation and players from the same household only.
- Masks need to be worn at all times in the facility including
- On the walking track
- On the basketball court
- In common areas
**Our IT team is finalizing the procedures for track and fitness center reservations. As soon as it is complete, instructions will be sent to all members.
The Vogt Visual Arts Center and Landmark Historical Society are closed at this time.
Please refrain from visiting if you are not comfortable with these requirements.
SELF-MONITORING
For the health and safety of yourself and others, before visiting one of our facilities please complete the self-assessment shown. If you have any of the symptoms listed below or answer yes to any of the questions, we ask that you do not enter our facilities.
- Fever/Chills
- Cough
- Sore Throat
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- New and/or sudden loss of taste or smell
- Gastrointestinal concerns
- In the last 10 days have you been in close contact with any person who tested positive for COVID-19?
- Does anyone in your home show any of the above symptoms?
RECREATION PROGRAMMING
All classes are canceled starting Friday November 20, 2020 including:
- All recreation programs
- All athletic leagues/classes
- All recreation group fitness classes
At this time, Tot Time Preschool will continue in person!
As the Park District has done since the onset of the pandemic, we continue to follow the guidelines of the IDPH and the DCOE to provide the community as many services as possible in the safest manner possible. We appreciate your continued support and cooperation as we navigate the frequent fluctuations in State of Illinois mandates, which affect our operations. Stay safe!
November 17, 2020
Due to the significant increase in COVID-19 cases throughout suburban Cook County, Tinley Park-Park District is implementing a MANDATORY FACE COVERING POLICY at the Tony Bettenhausen Recreation Center starting Wednesday November 18, 2020.
At this time, Tinley Fitness has NO CHANGES. Staff will continue to enforce the Face Covering Policy that has been in place since June 29, 2020. “Masks must be worn throughout the fitness center. You may remove your mask while on the equipment during your workout.” Fitness members that walk the track or reserve a basketball hoop will now be required to wear a face covering at the Recreation Center.
While at the Recreation Center, MANDATORY FACE COVERING includes, but is not limited to:
- All common areas and washrooms
- Basketball courts
- Walking track
- Programs at the Recreation Center
- All Athletic programming including:
- Basketball
- Volleyball
- Soccer
- Flag football
- Athletic camps
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November 16, 2020
The Tinley Park-Park District has been following all guidelines from the IDPH and DCEO since the beginning of the pandemic and will continue to do so. We are very confident in the cleaning protocols at our facilities. As of November 16, suburban Cook County is under an ADVISORY to limit activity. The Tinley Park-Park District is not changing any operations at this time. If IDPH and/or DCEO change their mandates we will adapt and provide the information to the public at that time. We want to make sure to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all members of the Tinley Park – Park District community.
On October 28, Cook County was put under additional mitigation requirements per the Restore Illinois plan. The restrictions currently in place at Tinley Fitness Center and Tony Bettenhausen Recreation Center walking track/basketball court are not affected by the new changes.
The new guideline limiting gatherings to a 25 person maximum does apply to the rental of rooms at the Recreation Center. Some youth athletic programs have been revised to coincide with changes to the athletics restrictions. You can find the resurgence mitigations from the state here.
Since the restrictions are based on a rolling basis, at this time other events remain unchanged. As event dates approach, we will then determine any actions that may be needed.
Tinley Fitness is booking Pool Parties! Parties are available beginning November 1. Please call 708-342-4255 to book our party. Click here for information on pricing, times, etc.
Beginning Monday, October 5, the locker rooms at Tinley Fitness and the Recreation Center will be open. Please follow the guidelines for using the locker room listed here. Thank you!
September 28, 2020 New Hours at Tony Bettenhausen Recreation Center and Tinley Fitness! Visit the Rec Center and Fitness pages for more information regarding the use and availability of amenities.
Mon-Fri: 5:30 a.m– 9:00 p.m.
Saturday: 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Sunday: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
August 27, 2020
Click here for Rules and Restrictions
July 15, 2020
Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois plan allows for social gatherings of up to 50 people. The Park District is once again issuing picnic permits and room rentals at the Tony Bettenhausen Recreation Center, following all restrictions and guidelines contained in the Phase 4 mandates. For more information and pricing, please visit the picnic permit page or the room rental page.
June 29, 2020
Thank you for your patience! Playgrounds are open following the new normal social distancing of 6′, max. 50 people at one time and wearing face masks. Parks staff will visit each site to take down the swings-this may take a few days. We are so happy kids can again get out and play!
The Tinley Park-Park District Board of Commissioners and staff wish to thank our community for their patience and perseverance through this pandemic. We are pleased to be moving into Phase 3 of the Restore Illinois Plan effective Monday, June 1, 2020.
The District is always committed to providing facilities and programs in the safest possible environment possible. As has been the norm in Phase 2, Phase 3 requires social distancing, wearing face masks when the 6’ distancing cannot be maintained and remaining at home if you are not feeling well. Thank you for your cooperation in following these mandates when using Tinley Park-Park District facilities and parks. As of June 1, Tinley Park-Park District will have the following available to the public:
- Tony Bettenhausen Recreation Center opens for program registrations and account updates only. The hours are Monday – Friday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm and Saturday 7:00 am to 2:00 pm. The walking track, coffee shop and gym will remain closed.
- Tinley Fitness is offering one-to-one personal training with limited availability. The Fitness Center is not open for general workouts, or classes held in the studio or cycle room.
- Some Rec Center fitness classes will be held outdoors; the exact location for each class will be emailed to registered participants prior to the program start date. Classes begin the week of June 8 so register now!
- Registration for summer classes is open. Restrictions currently limit the number of participants per class to 10 and require an outdoor location.
- Already open are Canine Campus Dog Park, tennis courts and park open spaces. Any gatherings are limited to 10 or fewer individuals and require social distancing and face masks.
The following remain closed for public use:
- Recreation Center gyms, coffee shop, room rentals and indoor exercise classes.
- Tinley Fitness: individual use of the fitness center equipment, indoor exercise classes, indoor pool for lap swim and water exercise classes
- White Water Canyon Water Park
- Tinley Park Performing Arts Center
- Vogt Visual Arts Center
As always, the Park District continues to follow the recommendations and requirements of the Illinois Department of Health, Centers for Disease Control and other agencies. The fluidity of the situation creates frequent updates and changes. We will continue to provide these through our website, social media and emails. We look forward to seeing you soon! Stay Healthy! Stay Positive! Stay Optimistic!
May 22, 2020
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we regret to announce that the Tinley Park-Park District Annual 4th of July Celebration is being canceled for 2020. The Restore Illinois Plan currently specifies that only 50 people can gather for an activity, so we cannot host this great event. This event brings thousands of people into the heart of the community to enjoy the various activities throughout the day in celebration of the birth of our great nation.
Hosting the 4th of July celebration each year is a staff favorite. Since that is not possible, we are taking our event virtual! Park District staff is busy planning a variety of fun 4th of July themed activities in a virtual format. Look for details on these activities to be announced in the coming days and weeks.
July 4 is traditionally capped off with our spectacular fireworks show. We plan to reschedule the fireworks show to a fall date, yet to be determined, which hopefully provides time for things to open up. We recognize that the annual July 4th fireworks display is a community favorite, so by postponing them until fall we still have an opportunity to hold them.
We know you are as disappointed we are, and we appreciate your understanding. Please continue to watch our website, social media and emails for additional announcements regarding the 4th of July virtual events, fireworks, summer programs and the gradual return to normal through.
Stay Healthy! Stay Positive! Stay Optimistic!
Shawn Roby
May 21, 2020
The Tinley Park-Park District is anxious to get back to the business of recreation! We are happy to announce the start of a gradual reopening! Many restrictions remain in place during Phase 3 of Restore Illinois, so below are the planned first steps starting June 1:
- Tony Bettenhausen Recreation Center opens for program registrations and account updates only. The hours will be Monday – Friday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm and Saturday 7:00 am to 2:00 pm The walking track, coffee shop and gym will remain closed.
- Tinley Fitness plans to offer one-to-one personal training with limited availability. Please watch the website, emails and social media for further information.
- Fitness classes are being moved outdoors to location the Band Shell @ the Rec Center, Community Park and Centennial Park. The exact location for each class will be emailed to registered participants prior to the program start date.
- Registration for summer classes is open. Restrictions currently limit the number of participants per class to 10.
This very fluid situation requires constant monitoring. These plans are based on current guidelines. We will continue to provide you with any and all updated information as soon as we have it. Thank you for your patience. We look forward to seeing you soon!
The Tinley Park-Park District received clarification regarding the reopening of tennis courts from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Development. As of May 15, 2020, the tennis courts listed are available for play during daytime hours:
Lewis Park at 16801 Normandy Drive
Veterans Park at 16001 Ozark Avenue
Community Park at 8125 West 171st Street
Remember that the Governors Stay at Home Order is still in effect and that all social distancing
rules must be observed. Parks continue to be open with some limitations. The Park District wants you to enjoy time in the parks while observing all COVID-19 protection protocols for the safety of all those using the parks. The following portions of the parks remain CLOSED as use would inherently encourage close contact.
Playgrounds
Basketball Courts
Athletic Fields
May 15, 2020
White Water Canyon Water Park Update
Your health and safety are our priority. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions in effect, White Water Canyon cannot open on May 30. We are awaiting guidance from the Illinois Department of Health and the governor’s office to determine when and if opening is feasible. We will keep you informed of all updates as we receive these guidelines. Please watch our social media, this website and Park District emails for further information.
For those who purchased a 2020 White Water Canyon membership pass, you will receive a full refund of the purchase price or have the refund applied as a household credit for future use. You will receive an email early next week with details. Thank you.
SUMMER DAY CAMP UPDATE
May 12, 2020
Dear Camp Families,
I want to give you an update on Tinley Park-Park District Summer Camps as we near what was to be the start date of our programs. Taking into consideration Governor Pritzker’s 5 phase plan and the fact that we are still awaiting final guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health, Centers for Disease Control and American Camp Association, the window of time to adequately prepare is shrinking. Therefore, we have made the very difficult decision to cancel the first 4 weeks of camp. We will be reaching out in the coming days to families currently enrolled in these first 4 weeks of camps regarding refunds.
At this time, we look to move forward with a plan to have camp begin on July 6. As I am sure you understand, this is a very fluid situation with guidelines and restrictions that may further influence the new proposed start of camp. Tinley Park-Park District wants to conduct the summer program as we have in the past but understands that camp will undoubtedly be very different this year. Social distancing, limited activities with social interactions and the removal of field trips are the start of how camp will change. The Tinley Park-Park District employs dynamic and experienced staff and I am confident we will continue to create a program that is safe, fun and socially appropriate as we move forward.
We are currently developing multiple camp-like experiences in the event we are unable to have a traditional day camp programs and will announce them as they come to fruition. Any changes to camp and additional program offerings will be communicated to you via email and social media.
Thank you for choosing our summer programs for your children. We cherish the time spent developing and nurturing the relationships, social and emotional growth, and fun experiences that are created each summer. Our camp family is grieving these unprecedented changes just as you are. We will continue to move forward during these difficult times with the same positive outlook and detailed planning and feel confident we will come back together soon. Until camp begins-stay healthy, stay positive, stay hopeful!
Meghan Fenlon
Superintendent of Recreation
Tinley Park-Park District
708-342-4213
May 11, 2020
From the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the health and safety of the Tinley Park-Park District’s members and patrons have been at the forefront of all our decisions. The District has followed the recommendations provided by Federal, State and local agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and the Illinois Department of Public Health.
The Restore Illinois plan issued on May 6 by Governor Pritzker’s office provides a general outline for the State to move forward in the coming months. However, many ambiguities remain. Specifically, defining the restrictions called for in each phase of the plan as they would apply to the Tinley Park-Park District facilities, programs and special events.
As the details for each of the restrictions are defined, we can make decisions on reopening facilities and programs while abiding by the specified safety protocols. Like you, we are anxious to get back to the business of recreation!
This is a trying time for everyone. We truly appreciate your patience and support while we navigate the myriad considerations required to provide the safest possible parks and recreation environment for everyone. We will continue to share all updates and new information with you through our website, social media and Park District emails. Please check back often for the latest information. Thank you.
5/1/2020
Canine Campus is now open. All social distancing rules must be observed.
Our parks are open with some limitations. The Park District wants you to enjoy time in the parks while observing all COVID-19 protection protocols for the safety of all those using the parks. The following portions of the parks are CLOSED as use would inherently encourage close contact.
- Playgrounds
- Basketball Courts
- Tennis Courts
- Athletic fields
We appreciate everyone’s cooperation until such time as these restrictions can be lifted.
5/1/2020
The uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic affects us all. The Tinley Park-Park District works each day to answer all our patrons’ questions with the best information available. For our Summer Day Camp families especially, we understand your concerns. You depend on this vital program for your children each summer.
Our day camps serve children from age 3 to 16 in four locations. The campers are engaged in games, sports, outdoor play, field trips, crafts and other activities throughout the day. It is a dynamic program involving complicated logistics. All factors must be considered carefully to ensure a safe and healthy environment for both campers and staff.
We are awaiting issuance of guidelines from Illinois Department of Public Health as well as the American Camp Association and the Centers for Disease Control regarding best practices to safely open the day camp program. We expect these guidelines to be issued very soon. Once received, our Superintendent of Recreation and Superintendent of Parks along with day camp site leaders can carefully evaluate the guidelines to determine the extent of impact on the program. Then we can make an informed, knowledgeable decision regarding moving forward with the program.
We are aware of the necessity for parents to make arrangements for the upcoming summer. We will communicate all decisions as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding and patience as we work through this unprecedented situation.
4/27/2020
During these trying times, we could all use a little help from our friends.
Tinley Park-Park District has got your back!
To provide our patrons with peace of mind, we are temporarily deferring payment when you register for a Summer 2020 program! See details on our brochure and online registration pages.
Also temporarily, you can create an online account if you are new to the Park District! Not sure if you already have an account or forgot your user ID/password? No problem! Give the office a call at 708-342-4200, Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.
In the meantime, sign up for one of our virtual programs to make this month a bit more fun.
We are here for you now and will be here for you on the other side of this historical pandemic. After all, that’s what friends are for!
#stayhealthy #stayhome #tinleyparkFUN
4/22/2020
There is a lot of discussion on using face masks during this time. This information from the CDC is very helpful.
Our staff is working hard to finalize our first round of virtual programs for you. Please check back and watch our social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube) for updates!
4/8/2020
We are all feeling isolated and trying to cope with the current crisis. We also know that especially during this stressful time access to nature through our local parks and green spaces offers important health benefits, both physical and mental. That means that we all must follow public health guidance and practice physical distancing so that these spaces will continue to be accessible. Please adhere to these tips when you visit a park, go for a walk or take a bike ride!
3/27/2020 Update!
In addition to all cancelled programs and closed facilities, effective immediately Canine Campus Dog Park is closed until further notice. Parks are open. However, in order to maintain social distancing rules playgrounds, pavilions, basketball and tennis courts are closed.
Please remember, by Governor Pritzker’s Executive Order No. 8 social distancing rules and group size are in effect until further notice. If you have any questions, please email info@tinleyparkdistrict.org or call 708-342-4200.
3/23/2020 Joint Statement on Using Parks and Open Space While Maintaining Social Distancing
Statement from the National Recreation and Parks Association
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) prepared the following statement in support of the safe use of parks and open spaces during the COVID-19 outbreak.
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) prepared the following statement in support of the safe use of parks and open spaces during the COVID-19 outbreak. As of March 23, 2020, more than 800 organizations have signed on to voice support.
Concerns about the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak continue to grip our nation. As organizations that support the power of parks and open spaces as essential resources for health and wellness, we understand that people may have questions and concerns about visiting their local parks, trails or open spaces at this time.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has flagged mental health as a top concern associated with the COVID-19 outbreak. We recognize that social distancing may take a toll on our mental health, especially during high-stress and anxiety-producing global public health emergencies. We also know that parks provide a connection to the outdoors and green space as well as opportunities for physical activity which studies demonstrate reduces stress and improves mental health.
We believe that many parks, trails and open spaces can continue to be used in a safe manner that allows people to enjoy the mental and physical health benefits these spaces provide. In all instances, we recommend people follow local, state and national ordinances and guidelines regarding the use of these spaces and recognize that these vary from community to community.
In places where there are no restrictions on the use of local parks, trails and open spaces, we encourage all users to follow these recommendations:
- Refrain from using parks or trails if they are exhibiting symptoms.
- Follow CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene prior to and during use of parks or trails.
- Prepare for limited access to public restrooms or water fountains.
- While on trails, warn other users of their presence and as they pass, and step aside to let others pass.
- Follow CDC guidance on the recommended size of social gatherings including outdoor picnicking, pick-up sports and other group hangouts, and maintain proper physical distance at all times.
- Observe CDC’s minimum recommended social distancing of 6 feet from other individuals at all times. If this is not possible, users should find an alternate location or depart that space.
- Consult their local and state ordinances and guidelines for the most up to date recommendations on park and trail use.
We encourage local jurisdictions to keep parks, trails and open spaces accessible as long as it is safe to do so.
Our local parks, trails and open spaces have always served as places where people can find respite and seek peace and restoration. During this time of uncertainty, these places are needed now more than ever. Our nation’s park and recreation professionals are working hard to maintain these spaces and keep them safe, accessible and benefiting our communities during these challenging times. Let us all do our part to use them in a way that respects each other and public health guidance.
3/21/2020 Stay-At-Home Update
3/16/2020 Building Closing Update
3/13/2020 URGENT UPDATE
3/12/2020 Message from Executive Director
Additional information on the COVID-19 pandemic, can be found at
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Illinois Department of Public Health
Symptoms: Patients with COVID-19
