Chicago Park District suspends in-person programming as new COVID-19 restrictions take hold

The Chicago Park District is suspending all in-person programming as new statewide COVID-19 restrictions are set to take effect, officials announced Thursday.

All in-person programming will halt Friday until further notice as the state moves into Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s Tier 3 mitigation plan, spokeswoman Michele Lemons said. That includes daytime child care services offered at certain facilities.

The Park District will, however, continue to offer virtual programs “to keep families active and engaged at home,” according to a statement.

Restrooms and shelters at most fieldhouses will remain open during normal hours. Aside from the parkland east of Lake Shore Drive, the lakefront trail and other outdoor park spaces will still be accessible.

Still, large gatherings and activities involving close contact are prohibited and social distancing must be observed. Those accessing the lakefront trail must “keep it moving,” and masks are mandatory.