Prospect Heights Parks planning for a more normal summer
After nearly a year of program cancellations and heavy restrictions due to the pandemic, the Prospect Heights Park District is making plans for a more normal summer in 2021, albeit with some necessary adjustments.
While adhering to all safety guidelines, the park district is anticipating opening the swimming pool on June 5, starting its summer camp on June 7, and tentatively planning the Block Party normally held in June for August instead.
The pool at Lions Park will have a different schedule, fewer people and social distancing in 2021. Season passes will not be offered, reservations are required and a maximum of 50 individuals will be allowed per reservation time.
Patrons are asked to sign up and pay the fee for an hour-and-45-minute pool reservation time slot through their district online account. Reservations also will be accepted by phone.
In addition to public swim, there will be scheduled times for swim lessons, swim team and "summer camp swimtime" this season.
New this year, the district is offering poolside stories and activities with the Prospect Heights Public Library Saturday mornings for kids ages 3 to 6. This is included in their daily pool reservation fee during Saturday morning open swim.
Another new addition is a five-day camp introducing kids ages 8 to 13 to Ultimate Frisbee. Participants will receive 15 hours of instruction on techniques and skills to pass a flying disc from player to player until someone catches it in the opponent's end zone for a goal.
Each kid will receive a neck gaiter for nose and mouth protection, four tickets to select 2021 Chicago Union home games, and prizes for skill challenges and effort.
Other popular summer programs returning include dance classes, tennis and golf lessons, and soccer, tee-ball, lacrosse, basketball, archery and STEM programs.
Executive Director Christina Ferraro explained the need to push this year's Block Party later in the summer.
"Until we reach Phase 5 of the Restore Illinois plan, which allows for large gatherings of all sizes, the event cannot be held in June, so we tentatively plan to host the Block Party on Aug. 28 this year," Ferraro said.
For more information about the golf course, swimming pool, summer camp and programs, visit phparks.org or call (847) 394-2848.