Barrington park board decides against opening water park this year

Barrington Park District board members have decided against opening the Aqualusion water park this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Situated in Langendorf Park, Aqualusion was supposed to open for the season May 23. Along with swimming, lessons and other activities, special events were planned for the pool this year.

Citing the coronavirus pandemic, park board members voted Monday night to not open as planned.

"This was a very difficult decision at a very difficult time," officials said in a statement, "but it was made in the interest of safety for the park district patrons and the park district staff. The board is of the opinion that even if the stay-at-home order is lifted or modified, social distancing and sanitation guidelines will be continued, making the safe operation of the pool impossible."

Park officials said they'll continue to monitor when and how other facilities might be able to reopen.

Events that no longer will occur include the cardboard boat regatta that was set for June 21, and the tropical family fest July 24.

Aqualusion also has been the longtime home for a duck race and pool party fundraiser for JourneyCare in the village. The annual event was expected to raise about $25,000 last year for the All About Kids pediatric program, which provides comfort and specialized care for children and families facing serious illness.