Clearwater Parks And Recreation Reopening Plans

CLEARWATER, FL – As the City of Clearwater took steps to keep people safe during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, many parks and recreation facilities were closed. City leaders also had to make the decision to cancel many events and programming.

As the state of Florida begins reopening in phases, the Clearwater Parks and Recreation Department is also making plans for reopening city recreation facilities and some athletic fields.

Recreation Centers:

• All city recreation center pools will open May 11 for pool use only.
• Fees and payments can be made by check or credit cards only.
• The Ross Norton Skate Park and the Henry L. McMullen Tennis Complex will open May 11.
• The North Greenwood Recreation Center and the Ross Norton Recreation Center will continue with the Feeding Tampa Bay Program.
• The Senior Meal Program and the Aging Well Connect Program will continue.
• Athletic usage by renters and co-sponsor groups can begin May 18, but all users must submit a usage plan before receiving a permit.
• Gymnasiums, fitness centers, general programs, indoor facility rentals, the Aging Well Center, and special events will remain closed at this time.

The guidelines the facilities will follow include:

• The recreation facilities will enforce social distancing at all times.
• Masks are recommended but not required.

Swimming Pools Hours & Rules:

• Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. and 4-8 p.m.
• Saturday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Lap swimming will be allowed in main pools only, no swim lessons at this time.
• Slides, diving boards and kiddie pools will remain closed.
• Call ahead to the recreation center you plan to use 48 hours in advance to reserve a spot. Spots will be limited at each site and patrons will only be allowed to use the pool for 1-hour at a time.
• Maximum number of lap swimmers will depend on the facility, but no more than 10 will be allowed.
• Long Center therapy pool will be open for exercise and have a maximum of 10 people.
• The city of Clearwater is working hard to coordinate logistics and make the best decisions for the safety of residents, visitors and staff. The city is currently working on a plan to conduct summer camps safely. More details on that plan will be shared when final decisions are made.

Ross Norton Skate Park Hours:

• Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. and 4 p.m.-8 p.m.
• Saturday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
• 48 hour call ahead reservation system for all usage
• 1-hour maximum usage for each participant

Henry L. McMullen Tennis Complex Hours:

• Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.- 1 p.m. and 4-8 p.m.
• Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. -1 p.m.
• Hard and Clay Courts will be open, but with reduced access.
• Singles and doubles play will be allowed, but social distancing guidelines must be followed.
• Follow existing guidelines for court reservation.

Clearwater Community Sailing Center:

• The Clearwater Sailing Center will be reopen on May 6.

City of Clearwater Events:

• All city special events for the month of May have been canceled.
• The city is planning some virtual events. More details on those will be coming soon.

The city of Clearwater’s Parks and Recreation Department would like to thank everyone for being patient and understanding as decisions continue to be made on closings and cancellations to help in the fight to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Contact Information:

Clearwater Beach Recreation Complex | 69 Bay Esplanade | 727-462-6138

Long Center | 1501 N. Belcher Road | 727-793-2320

Morningside Recreation Complex | 2400 Harn Blvd. | 727-562-4280

North Greenwood Recreation & Aquatic Complex | 900 N. MLK Jr. Ave. | 727-562-4590

Ross Norton Recreation & Aquatic Complex | 1426 S. MLK Jr. Ave. | 727-562-4380

Henry L. McMullen Tennis Complex | 1000 Edenville Ave | 727-669-1919

Moccasin Lake Nature Park | 2750 Park Trail Lane | 727-562-4315

This press release was produced by the City of Clearwater. The views expressed here are the author’s own.