With the release of the Governor’s Back on Track Indiana plan, Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) looks forward to providing opportunities for the public to once again explore, engage and connect with our award-winning park system. CCPR has proactively identified and established safety protocols for the phased reopening of our parks, programs, and facilities. Visitors and participants will notice a variety of significant changes to CCPR’s operations, especially during the initial phases of implementation, to best ensure everyone’s wellbeing.
“In preparing our resumption of operations plan, CCPR relied on best practices from the Back on Track Indiana plan, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, National Recreation and Park Association, among other sources,” explained Michael Klitzing, CCPR Director. “We also want to thank the Hamilton County Health Department and a panel of respected doctors for reviewing and providing valuable feedback on our plan.” The panel was comprised of Dr. Michael Kaufmann, Dr. Tracey Ikerd, and Dr. Timothy Hannon.
The most current updates on CCPR’s reopening plan are available at carmelclayparks.com.
Monon Community Center
The Monon Community Center will reopen on May 24 or when Hamilton County enters Stage 3 of the state’s reopening plan, whichever is later. Initially, the facility will only be open by reservation for existing paid members age 15 and above. No new memberships or day passes will be sold until after July 4. Fitness equipment has been spread throughout the west building, including on the indoor track, and a limited schedule of group fitness classes will be offered in the gymnasium, all to promote physical distancing between visitors.
With the Governor encouraging seniors to stay safely at home, SilverSneakers® fitness classes will continue to be available online for members and the general public to enjoy.
“As always, the safety of our members and staff is our number one priority. We know there will be a lot of adjustments for everyone as we get back up and running,” said Eric Mehl, CCPR Director of Recreation and Facilities. “We appreciate everyone’s patience as we open our doors. We’re all in this together and we are glad to be a resource for our community.”
Parks, Playgrounds, Splash Pads & Restrooms
Playgrounds, splash pads, and restrooms will open on May 24 in all CCPR parks and along the Monon Greenway, consistent with the state’s guidelines. The skate park and membership-based dog park, both located in Central Park, will also reopen on this date. CCPR will work closely with the City of Carmel to determine the appropriate time to reopen Midtown Plaza and the Monon Greenway between Main Street and Gradle Drive, although this is not anticipated to occur before Memorial Day.
Summer Camps
CCPR remains hopeful that summer camps will begin on June 1, pending guidance from the CDC as required by the Back on Track Indiana plan. With many CCPR camps housed in school buildings, which the state has mandated remain closed until at least June 30, it is likely that camp capacity will be significantly reduced. CDC guidance for camps will ultimately determine when and how many children and families we will be able to serve this summer.
The Waterpark
The Waterpark is expected to open on June 14 at no greater than 50 percent capacity, as required under the state’s reopening plan. Lounge chairs will not be provided by CCPR this summer, but visitors are welcome to bring their own folding chairs. Visitors are encouraged to bring credit cards to minimize the use of cash.
Click here to view a visual version of our resumption of operations plan.