Memorial Day 2020: Public Pools Across Lake County Remain Closed

LAKE COUNTY, IL — Memorial Day weekend is upon us, and several park districts across Lake County have yet to decide whether their public pools and aquatic centers will open for the summer due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. However, a decision was announced May 14 by the Village of Grayslake, stating that the Esper A. Petersen Foundation Family Aquatic Center would not be able to open for the 2020 season due the restrictions established by the Gov. J.B. Pritzker's executive orders. Over in Libertyville, Village officials announced their decision to close both Adler and Riverside pools for the 2020 season on May 4.

"Due to the uncertainty pertaining to the safety of public gatherings this summer, The Village of
Libertyville has made the decision to close its two pools (Adler and Riverside) for the 2020
season," the Village said, in a news release. "The health and safety of our patrons is our primary concern and the ability to provide a safe environment during the COVID-19 pandemic is ever changing."

The Libertyville Sports Complex also remains closed.

According to the news release, the Village said those entitled to a refund for a program cancellation or membership will automatically receive a refund in the form of a check to the address on-file, and asks that you allow several weeks in order for refunds to be processed.

More: Will Pools Open This Summer In Illinois?

Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, a number of area Memorial Day parades have also been canceled.

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The following are the statuses of other aquatic centers and public pools across Lake County (as of Thursday, May 21):

Gurnee Park District — Hunt Club Aquatic Center: As of May 12, all Gurnee Park District facilities are closed through May 31 due to the governor's executive order.

"Across the region, several public pools have already announced their closure," the park district said in a recent statement. "We have decided to delay the decision until more information can be obtained."

The park district added that its staff members are regularly attending meetings with public health officials, parks and recreation professionals and authorities in the field of aquatics "to determine the safest methods to follow in order to open these facilities."

"Since we are aware that the operational season will be short if at all, and other limitations may be present, we have refunded anyone who has purchased a season pass and will offer discounted passes/day rates if/when we are able to open," the park district added.

Village of Antioch: Village officials recently announced the decision to delay the start of summer programs and the opening of the Antioch Aquatic Center to July. Officials told residents to please be assured that any current registrants will receive full refunds for June camp dates.

"Beginning in June, provided the Stay at Home Order has been lifted, staff will begin to explore the viability of running safe summer programs and aquatic facility operations, and address the challenges of extensively training and preparing staff to deliver services in a safe manner," the Village said in a news release. "Moreover, should the Antioch Aquatic Center open, it will do so without offering a swim lesson program, rentals, or aquatic special events this season. This decision also includes the cancellation or postponement of all scheduled special events and concerts up to and including the 4th of July parade, Freedom Run, and Fireworks display. The Village of Antioch will reassess the remainder of the summer season in early June."

>> More info. and updates

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Mundelein Park and Recreation District — Barefoot Bay: In a May 11 video message from Mundelein Park and Recreation District Executive Director Ron Salski, Salski said he and staff members are "developing plans how best to meet state the guidelines while maintaining safety." In addition, Salski added that they are adhering to the governor's plan, and aren't ready to roll out their plans until they "fully understand the restrictions."

Vernon Hills Park District — Family Aquatic Center: According to the park district website, a decision on the opening of the Family Aquatic Center for this summer will be made at the May 28 Vernon Hills Park Board meeting.

Round Lake Area Park District — Aquatic Center: "With the exception of the golf course, all facilities, skate parks, outdoor fitness equipment and playgrounds are closed through May 30," the park district announced on their website.

Patch will continue updating this list.

Is your park district or neighborhood pool open or closed for the 2020 season? Let Patch know in the comments.