Splash Zone, Amherst HealthPlex to open

Taxidermy animals lined the walls of the Black River meeting room at Lorain County Metro Parks Carlisle Visitor Center during the May 21 board meeting where members announced the opening of facilities.

The meeting space has capacity for 125 people, but throughout the room, 10 people spread apart to socially distance themselves.

Decisions regarding the reopening of facilities such as park restaurants, pools and other park amenities were discussed.

Jennifer Bracken, assistant director of Lorain County Metro Parks, said Splash Zone and the Amherst HealthPlex facility are set to open at the end of June.

“These facilities are going to open June 22, and there will be lap swimming only with a required preregistration,” Bracken said.

As restrictions begin to lift, the board announced the outdoor pool at Splash Zone will not open during the 2020 summer season.

James Ziemnik, director of the Lorain County Metro Parks, said most pools across the state are going to remain closed.

“In accordance with state guidelines, we’d have to sanitize all of the railings, boards and anything people come in contact with,” Ziemnik said.

“With our staffing levels, it’s just not possible for us to open the outdoor pool.”

In addition, there’s been no determination from the board as to when the Splash Zone Dog Park will open.

Operations such as the Sunset Terrace and the Miller Nature Preserve’s Orchid Dining Room will open on a carryout basis May 22. Guests will have the option to carry out their meals or dine outside in a spaced out seating area, Ziemnik said.

June activities at the Metro Parks and refunds will be issued if need be.

Despite canceled activities, the Metro Parks has seen a drastic increase in visitor attendance, Ziemnik said.

“We’ve seen an increase in our number of attendees,” he said. “In Lorain County, the numbers are up over 114%.”

As people continue to make their way into the parks, Bracken said she’s grateful to be able to provide services for the community.

“People have been introduced to nature and all of its benefits,” she said. “We’re happy to be a resource for people to appreciate all of nature.”

LYRIC AQUINO — THE MORNING JOURNAL The Board of Park Commissioners and Governing Board of the Lorain County Metropolitan Park District met May 21to discuss the progress of the parks, facilities, eating centers and other features amidst COVID-19.