KeyLime Cove getting in community spirit

Gurnee's KeyLime Cove Water Resort will break policy and open its doors for daily use for those who purchase tickets to a roughly monthlong fundraising event starting April 20.

Called Community Days, the event will benefit United Way of Lake County, LifeSkills Center for Leadership and the Gurnee police and fire departments.

Only 6,000 tickets at $20 apiece will be sold, with children 2 and under free. Community Days is set for April 20 through May 28, with the exception of May 22 to 25.

In a recent letter to the Gurnee village board, KeyLime Cove General Manager Dale McFarland said visitors will be allowed to experience the indoor water park for a day without buying an overnight room. KeyLine Cove ordinarily doesn't offer day passes.

McFarland said it's hoped the fundraiser visitors who get a taste of KeyLime Cove become "ambassadors of the resort."

Water park hours for Community Days will be 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Gurnee village board members had to sign off on KeyLime Cove's plans because police and fire department logos are being used on promotional materials.

"I really liked the idea and supported it," Gurnee Mayor Kristina Kovarik said.

If all goes well, organizers plan to raise $120,000 to be split among the United Way, LifeSkills and Gurnee's fire and police departments. Gurnee Village Administrator James Hayner said 100 percent of the money from ticket sales will be donated.

Tickets are available on United Way of Lake County's Web site. Tickets also will be available at select venues in Lake County to be determined.

KeyLime Cove is just northeast of the Tri-State Tollway and Grand Avenue in Gurnee.