Park District COVID-19 Notices & Updates

To meet the requirements of the Order, please be prepared to show visual proof of vaccination when participating in the following programs and services:

• Aquatics programming at Health and Recreation Center on the Harper College Campus (age 19 & up)
• Community Fitness Center members and guests (age 5 & up)
• Registered fitness class participants (age 5 & up)

Proof of vaccination will no longer be required for events at Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center as food and drink will not be available for consumption. Proof of vaccination is also not required for other non-athletic activities at this time. Face masks are required at all indoor Park District facilities regardless of vaccination status.

The following individuals are exempt from the vaccination requirements:

• An individual 18 years or age or younger participating in youth athletics or recreation, unless such athletic event or recreational activity takes place where food or drink is served for consumption.
• Individuals entering a Park District facility for less than 10 minutes to register for programs/services, make a delivery, or use restroom facilities.
• Individuals who have previously received a medical exemption, as long as proof of the medical exemption and a COVID-19 test administered by a medical professional within the last 24 hours prior are provided upon entry.
• Any individual participating in recreation programs through special recreation for individuals with disabilities.

Proof of vaccination will only need to be provided to the District once and will be logged into our system. Please be aware it might take up to 24 hours for that information to be recorded. If participating in multiple activities within the first 24 hours, please plan to provide proof of vaccination prior to each program or service as documentation within our system may not yet be completed.

Please note that further guidance may be issued in the coming weeks regarding the mandate, that may change this current stance. View our COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for more information on specific circumstances.

January 2, 2022 • Vaccination Requirement Exemptions Effective January 3

• An individual 18 years of age or younger who enters a business subject to this Order to participate in an activity sponsored by a school, park district, child care or after-school program, or other organizations as defined in guidance by the Cook County Department of Public Health
• Youth or adults participating in special recreation programs
• Spectators of indoor sporting events provided that no food or drink is being served and that they remain masked at all time

Please note that further guidance may be issued in the coming weeks regarding the mandate, that may change this current stance.

December 31, 2021 • Vaccination Required for Fitness and Theatre Activities Effective January 3

As you may already know, effective Monday, January 3, 2022, Cook County will require all patrons age 5 and older to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and wear a mask when entering into public places such as our recreation centers. As a government agency, Palatine Park District is required to comply with this Cook County Health Department order.

At this time, to meet the requirements of the order, please be prepared to show visual proof of vaccination when:

• entering the Community Fitness Center
• participating in any fitness classes
• attending events at Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center

Proof of vaccination will only need to be provided to the District once and will be logged into our system. Please be aware it might take up to 24 hours for that information to be recorded. If participating in multiple activities within the first 24 hours, please plan to provide proof of vaccination prior to each program or service as documentation within our system may not yet be completed.

Please note that further guidance may be issued in the coming weeks regarding the mandate, that may change this current stance.

July 30, 2021 • Face Coverings Required Indoors Effective August 2

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has recommended that all persons, including those fully vaccinated, wear a face covering in public indoor settings in areas with substantial and high transmission. On July 29, Cook County was identified as a county with substantial transmission.

Palatine Park District has been committed to following the state guidelines throughout the pandemic and will continue to do so. Effective Monday, August 2, the District will require that anyone over two years of age wear a face covering while indoors at all Palatine Park District facilities, regardless of vaccination status.

The District is grateful for the community’s cooperation as we continue to Playing It Safe throughout Phase 5.

June 11, 2021 • Restore Illinois Phase 5 Operations

The Illinois Governor’s office has announced the start of Phase 5 throughout the state. Effective Saturday, June 12, all Palatine Park District pool operations will return to normal capacity as established by each of the four locations (view pool hours, pricing, and conditions). Reservations will no longer be required. Pool passes will be available for purchase with no change to daily fee pricing.

Effective Monday, June 14, Palatine Park District will allow vaccinated guests to access common areas without a face covering. Unvaccinated guests should continue to wear a face covering, including those age 2-11 who are not currently eligible for vaccination. District staff that work directly with children under the age of 12 will still be required to wear a face covering. Activity space capacities at each facility will return to the limits permitted by building code. Water fountains in facilities and parks will become available as soon as staff are able to ensure they are in working order.

On behalf of the Board of Park Commissioners and staff, Palatine Park District appreciates the community’s patience, understanding, and cooperation as we remain Playing It Safe throughout Phase 5. Please continue to take care of yourself and stay healthy.

May 27, 2021 • Face Covering Guidance for Vaccinated Guests

Effective Thursday, May 27, Palatine Park District will begin to allow vaccinated guests to remove their face coverings when participating in activities as permitted by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). Face coverings will remain required in all facility common areas, including lobbies, hallways, restrooms, and locker/changing rooms.

When attending a Palatine Park District facility, please be prepared to wear your face covering when entering and exiting the building regardless of your vaccination status. The following adjustments to guidelines will be in effect on Thursday, May 27:

• Unvaccinated adults and children under the age of 12 must continue to wear face coverings indoors. Face coverings must be worn outdoors when social distancing is not possible for unvaccinated adults and children under 12.
• Staff and coaches who have been vaccinated do not need to wear a face covering in designated activity spaces unless they are leading a program with children under the age of 12.
• By removing your face covering at any Palatine Park District facility, you are verifying truthfully that you have been fully vaccinated for at least 14 days.

Palatine Park District will continue to meet expanded cleaning standards and encourage social distancing throughout each facility. The District remains appreciative of the community’s patience as we continue Playing It Safe on our way to Phase 5.

May 19, 2021 • Restore Illinois Bridge Phase

On Monday, May 17, the Illinois Governor’s Office issued Executive Order 2021-10. Palatine Park District is excited to begin the Restore Illinois Bridge Phase transition for indoor activities and continues to follow guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). Over the next week, the District will begin to transition activities and service areas to prepare for no-mask allowances for vaccinated people.

At this time, face coverings and social distancing on District property remain in effect for all vaccinated and non-vaccinated guests. Palatine Park District appreciates the community’s patience as we continue Playing It Safe on our way to Phase 5.

Please watch for updated guidance and notices, or call 847.991.0333 with any concerns.

February 5, 2021 • Restore Illinois Phase 4 Mitigations

Restore Illinois Phase 4 Mitigations have been approved for our region and are now in effect under the following adjusted modifications and guidelines:

• Face coverings must be worn during all indoor activities, including physical/fitness activities.
• Groups of 50 or less are allowed.
• Approved organized teams of 50 or less allowed.
• Parent viewing of indoor programs prohibited.

For the most current facility hours, please visit the Facilities Overview section of our website.

Facility Services

• Birchwood Recreation Center (Visit Facility Site)
  • Youth Basketball program limited to practices and inter-squad scrimmages only.
  • Pickleball available by reservation within capacity restrictions on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
• Community Center (Visit Facility Site)
  • Gym available for reservations (groups of 6 or less; no contact).
  • Youth Basketball program limited to practices and inter-squad scrimmages only.
  • Walking permitted on gym floor for fitness members and walking passholders only; limited to 25 users.
  • Limited locker room use permitted; no showers.
• Community Fitness Center (Visit Facility Site)
  • Capacity limited to 50%.
  • Drop-in accepted, however, reservations preferred.
• Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center (Visit Facility Site)
  • In-person programming permitted as scheduled.
  • Rentals available within capacity restrictions.
• Falcon Park Recreation Center (Visit Facility Site)
  • Gym available for reservations (groups of 6 or less; no contact).
  • Volleyball permitted on Monday nights.
  • Youth Basketball program limited to practices and inter-squad scrimmages only.
  • Walking Track open, however, limited to 25 users.
  • Rentals available within capacity restrictions.
  • Pickleball available by reservation within capacity restrictions on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

Please note that all the above guidelines are subject to change.

January 29, 2021 • Restore Illinois Tier 1 Mitigations

Restore Illinois Tier 1 Mitigations have been approved for our region and are now in effect under the following adjusted modifications and guidelines:

• Face coverings must be worn during all indoor activities, including physical/fitness activities.
• Groups of 25 or less are allowed.
• Approved organized teams of 25 or less allowed.
• Parent viewing of indoor programs prohibited.

For the most current facility hours, please visit the Facilities Overview section of our website.

Facility Services

• Birchwood Recreation Center (Visit Facility Site)
  • Youth Basketball program limited to practices and inter-squad scrimmages only.
  • Pickleball available by reservation within capacity restrictions on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
• Community Center (Visit Facility Site)
  • Gym available for reservations (groups of 5 or less; no contact).
  • Youth Basketball program limited to practices and inter-squad scrimmages only.
  • Walking permitted on gym floor for fitness members and walking passholders only; limited to 25 users.
• Community Fitness Center (Visit Facility Site)
  • Capacity limited to 50%.
  • Drop-in accepted, however, reservations preferred.
• Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center (Visit Facility Site)
  • In-person programming permitted as scheduled.
  • Rentals available within capacity restrictions.
• Falcon Park Recreation Center (Visit Facility Site)
  • Volleyball permitted on Monday nights.
  • Youth Basketball program limited to practices and inter-squad scrimmages only.
  • Walking Track open, however, limited to 25 users.
  • Rentals available within capacity restrictions.
  • Pickleball available by reservation within capacity restrictions on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

Please note that all the above guidelines are subject to change.

January 24, 2021 • Restore Illinois Tier 2 Mitigations

Restore Illinois Tier 2 Mitigations have been approved for our region and will go into effect on January 25, 2021. Falcon Park Recreation Center will reopen on January 25, joining Birchwood Recreation Center and Community Center (currently open), under the following adjusted modifications and guidelines:

• Face coverings must be worn during all indoor activities, including physical/fitness activities.
• Groups of 10 or less are allowed.
• Approved organized teams of 25 or less allowed.

Palatine Stables will resume riding lessons and return to regular hours of operation effective January 23, 2021.

For the most current facility hours, please visit the Facilities Overview section of our website.

Programs

• Recreation programs will resume the week of January 25, however, limited to groups of 10 or less.
• Indoor sports will resume with a limit of 25 or less for approved organized teams.
• All indoor group fitness classes will resume with groups of 10 or less for sessions beginning in February.

Upcoming Special Events

January 29 • Puzzle Palooza VIRTUAL REGISTER
February 13 • We Love a Parade VIRTUAL REGISTER
March 27 • Hound Egg Hunt SCHEDULED

Please note that all the above guidelines are subject to change.

January 15, 2021 • Restore Illinois Tier 3 Mitigations Extended Through January 24

Restore Illinois Tier 3 Mitigations have been extended for our region by the Governor’s Office. District operation restrictions previously announced on November 19, 2020 will remain in effect through January 24, 2021. Those registered for winter programs that are affected by this extension will be contacted by a staff member with details on how the program will proceed. For the most current facility hours, please visit the Facilities Overview section of our website.

January 7, 2021 • Restore Illinois Tier 3 Mitigations Extended Through January 15

Restore Illinois Tier 3 Mitigations have been extended by the Governor’s Office. District operation restrictions previously announced on November 19, 2020 will remain in effect through January 15, 2021. Those registered for winter programs that are affected by this extension will be contacted by a staff member with details on how the program will proceed. For the most current facility hours, please visit the Facilities Overview section of our website.

December 18, 2020 • Restore Illinois Tier 3 Mitigations Extended Through January 9

Restore Illinois Tier 3 Mitigations have been extended under Executive Order 2020-74 by the Governor’s Office. District operation restrictions previously announced on November 19, 2020 will remain in effect through January 9, 2021. Those registered for winter programs that are affected by this extension will be contacted by a staff member with details on how the program will proceed. For the most current facility hours, please visit the Facilities Overview section of our website.

November 19, 2020 • Restore Illinois Tier 3 Mitigations

After taking the time to carefully review the new state mandates, Palatine Park District has made the following changes to our upcoming programs, services, and facilities. These changes will go into effect Friday, November 20, 2020.

Programs

• Indoor youth and recreational sports and activities are canceled [or postponed] unless moving to a virtual format. You will be contacted by a staff member with more information about your canceled class(es) or provided virtual platform details.
• All indoor group fitness classes are canceled.
• Preschool is still operating in-person.
• 1:1 training sessions for fitness, sports, and gymnastics are allowed.

Outdoor Amenities

• All outdoor amenities will have a max capacity of 10 people.
  • This is for the entire amenity; this does not mean party size of 10. If there are 9 people utilizing a court or playground, only 1 other person may join.

Facilities

• Falcon Recreation Center, Clayson House Museum, and Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center are closed.
• Palatine Hills Golf Club is closed for the season.
• Community Center is open for registration assistance (see hours).
• Community Fitness Center is open with restrictions (see details).
• Birchwood Recreation Center is open for registration assistance (see hours).
• Health and Recreation Center at Harper College remains closed.
• Palatine Stables will be delaying the start or continuation of our Riding School group and private or semi-private lessons for the Fall/Winter session and extending the original end date. Students will be notified when Riding School Lessons are able to be resumed.

Please note, all these guidelines are subject to change. We will communicate as quickly as we can. We appreciate your flexibility. Please stay safe.

Mike Clark
Executive Director
Palatine Park District

 July 1, 2020 • Phone Systems Return to Normal Operations

It has come to our attention that during our rush to prepare for re-opening, we inadvertently forgot to switch our phone lines back to “normal operations”. We wish it was as easy to turn on as actually answering the phone, but we will spare you the details and promise to be better moving forward! As of July 1, our phone lines are back to normal and we promise, if you call us at 847.991.0333 and leave a voicemail, a member of our Customer Service Team will return your call. Everyone here at the Park District is eagerly awaiting the community’s safe return to recreational activities.

June 10, 2020 • Summer Recreational Swim and Aquatic Programming Announcement

Palatine Park District would like to thank the community for being patient and flexible as we navigate these unknown times. The District has evaluated all options regarding the outdoor summer pool season and has spent countless hours working on potential solutions. That being said, we are sad to announce that the Family Aquatic Center will remain closed for the 2020 season. Due to new guidelines, provided by the Illinois Department of Public Health for Phase 3, recreational swim will not be allowed at any of our aquatic facilities. However, our staff is very excited to deliver aquatic programming at Birchwood and Eagle Pools.

Aquatic programming will start in the coming weeks and more information will be available soon. Programs such as Lap Swimming, Swim Lessons, Private Swim Lessons & Diving will be offered. The Health and Recreation Center indoor pool on the Harper College campus will remain closed throughout the summer as mandated by the college. Please check our website for the most up to date information. Staff will be issuing full refunds to all families that have purchased a 2020 Summer Pool Pass.

May 30, 2020 • Relaxed Restrictions on Targeted Areas in Accordance with Restore Illinois Plan

Welcome to summer everyone! Unfortunately, with the continued mitigation steps necessary to stop the spread and infection of the COVID-19 virus, the summer festival, concerts, ball games and many more summer fun favorites have been mandated to be cancelled or postponed. It is not the kind of summer we wanted or expected, however with the entry into Phase 3 of the Restore Illinois Plan, the Park District has opened or relaxed restrictions on targeted areas in accordance with the Restore Illinois Plan.

While a full suspension of operations has now been lifted, we are still very much restricted in what we can open and offer the community. Health officials are still mandating social distancing, groups no more than 10, face coverings and specific operations not permitted to be opened, like fitness centers.

The Park District has opened Palatine Hills Golf Course, tennis, pickleball, and other hard-court surfaces and spaces based on the guidance from the State. However, please be advised that open does not mean typical use and operations in these areas. Signs have been posted with the required rules that must be followed. I urge everyone to follow them at all times, otherwise we will be forced to lock and shut them down again until Phase 4.

Many facility and operations will remain closed based on what health officials are permitting. However, when permitted with the required restrictions, the Park District is and will continue to open and offer opportunities, programs, services, and facilities when we are informed that we can offer this to the community safely. Please refer to our website to get the latest information and updates of what is open and available for use as well as our limited recreational programming either outdoors or indoor. The staff continues to update our open/closed grid of park amenities and facilities, which can be viewed here. Unfortunately, no guidance to open playgrounds in Phase 3 has been received, so those will remain closed for public use and we are also awaiting guidance on swimming pools.

With public facilities, it is imperative that everyone do their responsible part and practice all guidance, rules, and mitigation steps during this pandemic. So, let us make sure to move forward not backwards and respect the community by following the rules. If we do this together, the Park District will be able to move into Phase 4 sooner and continue to open and offer more recreational opportunities for the community.

While there is some great news mentioned above, we also recognize that as we move forward things will continue to be different. We know things will not feel normal for the foreseeable future, so we are working diligently to adapt and navigate through these ever changing, challenging, and uncharted times. Things will need to be different, but that does not mean it needs to be hard. If we make smart choices now, we are confident we will return sooner rather than later. When that time comes and we can bring people together again at the Park District, we will be committed to follow and strictly adhere to the science and recommendations from our public health officials.

The Park District cannot wait until we can start hosting events and providing recreational programming for all, but we are dedicated to waiting until it is safe to do so. In the meantime, please take advantage and enjoy the parks, outdoors, and those amenities that we have opened.

We will see you soon!

Mike Clark
Executive Director
Palatine Park District

April 28, 2020 • Suspension of Operations Extended Through May 31 with Programming Opportunities

Based upon Governor Pritzker’s announcement to extend his stay-at-home order through the end of May, we will be extending the closure of all Palatine Park District facilities through Sunday, May 31. I wanted to reach out and let you know that myself and the entire Park District staff is eagerly awaiting the day we can resume operations. Until then, we must focus on staying healthy, responsible, and optimistic.

Below are some recent updates and upcoming exceptions to the extended Suspension of Operations:

• Palatine Hills Golf Course will Open on May 1 with Operational Restrictions
• Stay and Play Virtual Online Programming for All Ages Begins May 4
• Day, Sports, and Kids Camps Delayed Until July 6

While there is some great news mentioned above, we also recognize that as we move forward things will be different. We know things will not feel normal for the foreseeable future, so we are working diligently to make adapting to these changes easier. Things will need to be different, but that doesn’t mean it needs to be hard.

If we make smart choices now, we are confident we will return sooner rather than later. When that time comes and we can bring people together again at the Park District, we will be committed to follow and strictly adhere to the science and recommendations from our public health officials.

The Park District cannot wait until we can start hosting events and providing recreational programming for all, but we are dedicated to waiting until it is safe to do so.

We will see you soon!

Mike Clark
Executive Director
Palatine Park District

March 31, 2020 • Suspension of Operations Extended Through April 30

With the evolving developments and public health implications in the potential spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and our responsibility to the general public well-being, all access to the public with respect to programs, services, and facilities are suspended through April 30.

All Palatine Park District programs hosted at Harper College will be suspended through Friday, May 15.

All programs, performances, athletic-events, facility memberships, open gym, and programs held in school district buildings are canceled during this suspension of operations. All playgrounds, hard surface courts, the skate park, and outdoor fitness equipment are closed. In addition, the Dog Park at Plum Grove Reservoir Park, located on Harper’s campus, will be closed.

Participants and members will automatically be credited through the respective household accounts for the duration of the suspension. Credits will be processed at the end of the winter session.

Palatine Park District will be monitoring developments closely and will update our plans for resuming operations and other related details on our website, on our social media outlets, and signage at our facilities accordingly.

Please contact our Executive Director, Mike Clark at 847.496.6236 or mclark@palatineparks.org with any questions. We thank everyone for your understanding, patience and cooperation during this uncertain and unprecedented time. Please take care of yourself and stay healthy.

Mike Clark
Executive Director
Palatine Park District

March 26, 2020 • Closure of Outdoor Amenities

In accordance with the Governor’s Executive Order to Shelter in Place and recommendations made by the CDC regarding large gatherings, the Palatine Park District has announced that all playgrounds, hard surface courts, and facilities are closed.

While parks and trails remain open, it is still not acceptable to be in large groups. Many people chose to disregard the Governor’s order and in return, the Park District has received an extraordinary amount of messages from concerned patrons about the volume of gatherings.

As a result, the Park District is taking further action to highly discourage those people who are ignoring the order by the Governor. Closed signs have been posted near all playgrounds. Playgrounds will be roped off with caution tape. Basketball rims have been covered, tennis and pickleball courts have been locked as well as the skate park. Soccer and lacrosse goals have been disassembled and our drinking fountains have been shut off and will remain off until further notice.

In order to complete these efforts and regulations, we must ask staff to leave the safety of their homes and expose themselves to surfaces that have been touched by thousands of people. Any of whom could be infected.

We are also working cooperatively with the Village and Police Department, and they are ready to assist with enforcement by dispersing people who do not follow the Governor’s order.

All that being said, we implore any of you who took part in the discouraged activity to seriously reconsider your actions. Please do not make us take the next step of closing down the community parks entirely. We want people to be able to get outside to get fresh air and go for a walk, but if this type of blatant disregard for the safety of others continues, we will be forced to do so.

On behalf of the Board of Park Commissioners, the Park District Staff, and all of our loved ones, please take this seriously! Do your part to flatten the curve and save lives!

Mike Clark
Executive Director
Palatine Park District

March 23, 2020 • Suspension of Operations Extended Through April 7

Following the new shelter in place issued by Governor Pritzker on Friday, access to the public with respect to programs, services, and facilities are suspended through Tuesday, April 7, 2020. All District playgrounds and outdoor fitness stations will be closed during this suspension. Full operations are tentatively scheduled to resume at all Palatine Park District facilities beginning Wednesday, April 8, 2020.

All Palatine Park District programs hosted at Harper College have been suspended through Sunday, April 12.

While District public parks and walking trails will remain open to the public during this suspension, it is mandated that guests follow the CDC recommendations of keeping a safe social distance. The Dog Park at Plum Grove Reservoir Park, located on the Harper College campus, will remain closed through Tuesday, April 7, 2020.

All programs, performances, athletic-events, facility memberships, open gym, and programs held in school district buildings are canceled during this suspension of operations.

Participants and members will be credited through the respective household accounts for the duration of the suspension.

Park District will continue to monitor developments closely and update plans for resuming operations and other related details on our website, on our social media outlets, and signage at our facilities accordingly.

Please contact Executive Director, Mike Clark at 847.496.6236 or mclark@palatineparks.org with any questions. We thank everyone for your understanding, patience and cooperation during this uncertain and unprecedented time. Please take care of yourself and stay healthy.

Mike Clark
Executive Director
Palatine Park District

March 13, 2020 • Suspension of Operations Through March 30

With the evolving developments and public health implications in the potential spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and our responsibility to the general public well-being, all access to the public with respect to programs, services and facilities are suspended effective Saturday, March 14, 2020. Full operations are tentatively scheduled to resume at all Palatine Park District facilities beginning Monday, March 30, 2020.

All Palatine Park District programs hosted at Harper College will be suspended beginning Saturday, March 14 through Sunday, April 12.

All programs, performances, athletic-events, facility memberships, open gym, and programs held in school district buildings are canceled during this suspension of operations.

Participants and members will automatically be credited through the respective household accounts for the duration of the suspension. Credits will be processed at the end of the winter session.

Polling places held within park district buildings will remain open for election day on March 17, 2020.

Park District will be monitoring developments closely and will update our plans for resuming operations and other related details on our website, on our social media outlets and signage at our facilities accordingly.

Please contact Executive Director, Mike Clark at 847.496.6236 or mclark@palatineparks.org with any questions. We thank everyone for your understanding, patience and cooperation during this uncertain and unprecedented time. Please take care of yourself and stay healthy.

Mike Clark
Executive Director
Palatine Park District