Recreation amenities in city and county parks reopening as Whatcom moves into Phase 2
The city of Bellingham and Whatcom County are reopening some recreation amenities, such as bike parks, dog parks and campgrounds, as the county moves into Phase 2 of Washington Gov. Jay Inslee’s Safe Start plan, a phased approach to reopening the state, according to city and county news releases sent Friday, June 5.
Whatcom County was approved to advance to Phase 2 Friday, which immediately took effect. It allows for the reopening of many businesses that have been closed since mid-March due to COVID-19 and eases limits on social distancing that have been in effect to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
Bellingham is expecting to open several of its recreational amenities by the end of this week, according to a news release. The facilities that will be opening include:
▪ Sport courts, such as basketball, tennis, pickleball and volleyball.
▪ The disc golf course at Cornwall Memorial Park.
▪ Fenced off-leash dog areas at Lake Padden and Squalicum Creek Parks.
▪ The bike track and skate park at Civic Complex.
▪ The pump bike parks, dog parks, sport courts and parking at Whatcom Falls Park.
All park restrooms are open, but playgrounds and indoor facilities remain closed. Playgrounds, pools, horseshoes, ball fields and Civic Field will reopen in Phase 3, according to the release. Spray parks, facility rentals and special events will resume in Phase 4.
In Phase 2, outdoor recreation involving five or fewer people outside your household, which includes camping and beaches, is allowed. Gatherings of more than five people outside your household are not allowed.
Parking that has been blocked off at some of the more popular city parks will be reopened to ensure equitable access to park facilities, the release states. Park ambassadors will continue to monitor parks daily and inform visitors of safety guidelines and ensure park policies are followed, the release states.
“New signs will be added over the next week to remind people about safe distancing and avoiding crowded areas,” said Nicole Oliver, interim Parks & Recreation director for the city.
The city is also offering summer programs, including virtual youth camps and small group activities, which are now open for registration, according to the release.
Silver Lake Park Campground will reopen Monday, June 8, according to a news release sent Friday from the Whatcom County Parks & Recreation Department.
Operational changes are in effect for the campground. They are:
▪ Picnic shelters and group camp remain closed.
▪ All public showers are closed.
▪ The playground is closed.
▪ Cabins have reduced availability, due to enhanced cleaning protocols.
▪ Concessions are not available.
▪ The Lodge will open in the coming weeks with reduced hours for guests to pay fees and purchase firewood. Lodge hours will be posted in the park.
▪ Boat rentals will also be available in the upcoming weeks on a reduced schedule, which will be posted in the park.
New Silver Lake campground reservations can be made online starting 9 a.m. on June 8. They can also be made by calling the Park Administrative Office at 360-778-5850.
New cabin reservations can be made starting at 9 a.m. on June 15 by calling the park administrative office only.
Some cancellations are necessary due to the enhanced cleaning protocols, the release states. Those who are impacted will be contacted by June 12 and given a full refund, according to the release.
Campers are encouraged to register for campsites in advance or self-register when they arrive at the campground to reduce interactions with staff.
Lighthouse Marine Park campground remains closed due to border crossing restrictions.
The department encourages people to make sure they know about changes to normal services before they go, to come prepared with their own soap, water, hand sanitizer and cloth face mask and to stay home if you are not feeling well. Social distancing is also encouraged, the release states. People are also asked to leave no trace and pick up all garbage, including disposable gloves and masks.
