Coronavirus: Park District Closes Trails, Open Spaces, Courts

FRANKFORT, IL — In an April 3 update, the Frankfort Park District has announced that all its parks are now closed. Previously, playgrounds and the Bark Park were closed, but the park district has extended the closure to include paths/trails, basketball courts, tennis courts, athletic fields, open green space and hard play surfaces.

"This is not a decision the district took lightly, as seeing people enjoy our parks and facilities is our passion," the park district said on its website.

All park district offices and park properties will be closed and all programs and events are canceled through May 1.

The park district said staff is evaluating all canceled programs. Some may be shortened or canceled completely. As decisions are made, those registered will receive an email and credits or refunds will be processed.

The park district said it took these steps since it was getting increasingly hard to enforce limited use with the nicer weather.

Executive Director Gina Hassett said Frankfort Police have been assisting with the enforcement of park closures, and will continue to do so.

The Old Plank Road Trail is not under the jurisdiction of the Frankfort Park District, but the Will County Forest Preserve District. Preserve trails remain open.

"The district has limited staff but will continue to monitor when possible. Signs are posted and people need to abide by the posting," Hassett said, adding that this was a "difficult" decision.

If a park district member, participant or family member has tested positive for the coronavirus, the park district asks you to contact Executive Director Gina Hassett at 815-469-9400 or ghasset@frankfortparks.org.