COVID-19 Pool Closure – May 4, 2020

May 4, 2020

Dear Residents, Pass Holders and Patrons of Port Shiloh Pool –

After careful thought and consideration of all related factors, the Zion Park District board and administration have reached the disappointing conclusion that we cannot safely open Port Shiloh Pool for the 2020 swim season. We understand that this is as difficult to hear as the decision was to make. However, at this time, there are just too many concerns and unknown situations that could occur over the next few months due to the COVID-19 pandemic sweeping across our country.

The decision to cancel the pool season that has been enjoyed by Zion residents for decades has not been taken lightly. We had many factors to consider to reach this decision. The health and welfare of the residents and staff were our first priority.

The training regimen required to provide the level of safety our community relies on at Port Shiloh Pool is lagging due to the shortage of available programs to train staff in a timely manner. These are skills that are not learned online, they are very hands on and necessary for safe operations. We also do not want to offer the youth of our community a job at the pool, only to have the science prove that opening pool facilities is not feasible for the summer of 2020. Further, the Illinois Department of Public Health has given no indication as to when it would even begin conducting pool inspections or give guidance on pool openings.

The Zion Park District is very committed to providing opportunities for our community to learn to swim and we are saddened that we will have to forego that mission for this summer. As disappointing as this news may be, we feel it is the right decision for the health and safety of the general public as we cope with this unprecedented pandemic and how to meet the challenges it presents not just for the swimming pool but for all activities conducted by the Park District.

The Zion Park District continues to work closely with local, state and federal agencies to monitor the rapidly moving COVID-19 (Coronavirus) situation. As always, the health and safety of our community and our staff is our top priority. We thank you for your understanding!

Should you have any questions, please email info@zionparkdistrict.org.