Coronavirus: Forest Preserve Closes Dog Parks, Parking Lots

WILL COUNTY, IL — All Forest Preserve District of Will County preserve access area parking lots and dog parks will close as of sunset Saturday through April 7 due to the stay-at-home mandate issued by Governor J.B. Pritzker as a result of the coronavirus.

The preserve said trails will remain open as long as they can be accessed safely and people continue to practice social distancing of at least six feet. The cancellation of all public programs and volunteer workdays also will be extended through April 7.

During this time period, members of the public can still call the district's main number, 815.727.8700, or fill out a Contact Us form online if they need assistance or have questions.

All visitor centers and latrines also are closed, and the sale of wedding, picnicking and camporee permits has been suspended through April 30. The vestibule at the preserve's police headquarters will remain open so people can pay tickets by using a drop box between the hours of 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Visitors can push the call button for assistance. Ticket payments also can be mailed to: Forest Preserve Police, 22606 S. Cherry Hill Road, Joliet, IL 60434.

The Forest Preserve closures and cancellations are being instituted to help reduce a possible spike in COVID-19 cases, similar to those seen in other countries affected by the virus, which would overwhelm health care providers and facilities, said Ralph Schultz, the Forest Preserve's chief operating officer.