SOUTH EUCLID, Ohio — South Euclid city officials announced Thursday that due to the pandemic, parks, recreation and youth programs will be closed during the summer.
"The City of South Euclid has made the difficult decision to close many of its recreation facilities for the 2020 summer season, including the Bexley Park Swimming Pool and Quarry Park Splash Park. The closings are health and safety measures being implemented as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the unpredictable and highly contagious nature of the disease," city officials said.
According to the city, the decision also affects playgrounds, ballfields and the dog park. Additionally, there will be no permits issued for block parties or garage sales.
"These closures are designed to ensure social distancing, prevent congregating and protect the health of the public and employees," the city stated.
The city said that data from the Cuyahoga County Board of Health indicates that South Euclid is a hotspot for COVID-19 infections.
“These are not decisions we made lightly given the popularity of South Euclid’s recreation and youth programming, as well as our many popular summer programs and events,” said Mayor Georgine Welo. “But due to the continuation of social-distancing protocols and the need to ensure the health and safety of our residents and employees, opening our pools and recreation facilities at this time is not in the best interest of the health, safety and welfare of our community,” the city said.
According to the mayor's office, if anything changes, the city will do as resources allow, but only if state and local health officials determine it is safe.
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