February 15, 2025
Local News

Oregon Park District to reopen splash pad on Friday, Nash Recreation Center on July 8

By JEFF HELFRICH

The Oregon Park District will reopen its Nash Recreation Center on July 8, following what will be a 5-month-long closure to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Playgrounds, the dog park, splash pad and shelter will reopen Friday, in accordance with Phase 4 of the state’s Reopen Illinois plan, when gatherings of up to 50 people will be allowed.

OREGON – The Park District will reopen its Nash Recreation Center on July 8, following what will be a 4-month-long closure to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Playgrounds, the dog park, splash pad and shelter will reopen Friday, in accordance with Phase 4 of the state’s Reopen Illinois plan, when gatherings of up to 50 people will be allowed. In-person outdoor activities began earlier this month with social distancing and limited participants.

“The Park District is taking a proactive stance to keep our community, participants and staff safe during the COVID-19 pandemic,” park district Executive Director Erin Folk said in a news release. “We are currently operating and will continue to operate within the applicable parameters set forth by the governor’s office, the Centers for Disease Control and the Illinois Department of Public Health.”

Staggered program times, fewer participants, frequent hand-washing, increased equipment cleaning and other modifications will be in place, as will signs to remind all users to maintain a social distance.

A new reservation system will be introduced that will allow Nash users to schedule a time to use the pool, fitness center or gym, and also help staff limit group sizes.

Beginning July 1, reservations will be taken at 815-732-3101 or at www.oregonpark.org, where users also will find a "We Play Safe" guide.

“These procedures are new, and it may take time for our users to adapt, but we are here for you and ready to assist in any way we can,” Folk said. “We want our residents to understand, we take very seriously the well-being of our community, and nothing is more important to us than the health and safety of our participants and guests.

“However, we also understand that the suspension of access to our recreation programs and facilities has resulted in a negative effect on our community’s overall physical and mental wellness. We know that it’s time to get back to recreation in Oregon, and we look forward to welcoming you back on July 8.”