The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Mentor reopens courts
Pickleball, tennis players: Get ready to swing those racquets again Swimmers: Plan for city pools is in the works
The city of Mentor is beginning to restore some recreational options.
As per the Responsible RestartOhio plan, pickleball and tennis courts at Civic Center Park, Garfield Park and Walsh Park were reopened May 26.
Courts will be open daily from sunup to sundown. Restroom facilities will be sanitized every two hours during daylight hours.
Users are to adhere to the following guidelines:
• Stay home if you are sick or do not feel well.
• Pack hand-sanitizer and use it frequently.
• Avoid touching gates, fences and benches.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Wait until the group ahead of you has left the court before entering.
• Maintain 6-foot social distancing at all times.
• Do not touch other players’ racquets, balls, gear, etc.
• Avoid using your hand to pick up balls when possible; use your racquet/ foot to pick up balls to hit back to your opponent or another court.
• Use your own balls (clearly mark yours or use a different color).
• No loitering or gathering in groups.
• Pick up and dispose of your trash in the provided receptacles.
Rules and openings are subject to change.
“As these are public spaces, it is up to the individual to determine (his or her) level of comfort and acceptable risk when participating in activities,” an announcement on the city website says.
Users also are advised to read the Responsible Restart Ohio Guidelines as they relate to tennis courts.
Earlier this month, the city announced the cancellation of all recreation events and activities through June 30, citing guidance provided by the state and the Lake County General Health District.
The cancellations included summer camps, hikes and educational classes, the Earth Day celebration, Mentor On Tap and all events at the Mentor Civic Amphitheater. In addition, the opening of swimming pools and splash parks was delayed until at least June 30.
The Mentor Ice Arena, Wildwood Cultural Center, Mentor Senior Center, pickleball courts, basketball courts, playground equipment and skate parks were to remain closed until state and local orders restricting their use were lifted and the risk to public health due to the novel coronavirus was diminished.
“After reviewing the guidelines, it was something that could be reopened rather quickly,” Mentor Community Relations Administrator Ante Logarusic said.
“It is important that users continue to socially distance and follow the state’s recommendations as we are still in the midst of this pandemic.”
He said an announcement about pools is in the works.
City parks, Black Brook Golf Course and the Mentor Lagoons Marina remain open with rules in place to protect the health and safety of users and employees.
Residents are encouraged to continue to use the park system and trails while practicing safe social distancing.