BI Parks & Recreation District: Shutting Down Facilities

11/16/2020 — Beginning November 17, the Bainbridge Island Metro Park & Recreation District will be shutting down most facilities for public use until December 14.
Effective 11/17/2020

On November 15, 2020, Washington State’s Governor announced a four-week statewide set of restrictions. These new restrictions are in response to the recent rapid spread of the COVID-19 virus in Washington State and across the country. Under the Governor’s Proclamation 20-25.8 the following recreational programs will remain operational:

Outdoor recreation activities (Pods of 5, all users masked up, and socially distanced).

Online recreation and cultural programming.

The Aquatic Center will continue to operate under the strict guidelines of the WA Governor, Washington State Department of Health, and Kitsap County Health District.

All other recreational programming/activities will be canceled. The new modifications take effect at 12:01 a.m., Tuesday, November 17, 2020. If you are not comfortable attending an activity you are registered for at this time, know that we trust your judgment and fully understand.

Refunds will be issued for all programs and events that must be canceled during this closure. All refunds will be issued as a credit to your household account. If you want a refund check mailed, please contact the Park District at recreation@biparks.org. Please allow two weeks to receive the refund check once you have requested it.

The recommendations from the Washington State Governor’s office, Kitsap Public Health District, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suggest using the closure for proper social distancing and to give our staff and the community time to remain healthy.

During the closure, the Park District will continue to keep our parks and trail systems open to the general public. The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) has released a statement regarding Social Distancing in Public Parks and Trails, which supports the safe use of parks and open spaces.

The NRPA recommendations for the use of parks, trails, and open spaces:  Refrain from using parks or trails if you are exhibiting symptoms of an illness.

Follow CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene before and during the use of parks or trails.
Prepare for limited access to public restrooms or water fountains.
While on trails, warn other users of your presence. Please take caution of proper social distancing by stepping aside to let others pass.
Follow the WA Governor and CDC guidance on the recommended size of social gatherings, including outdoor picnicking, and other group gatherings, and maintain proper physical distance at all times.
Always observe CDC’s minimum recommended social distancing of 6 feet from other individuals. If this is not possible, users should find an alternate location or depart that space.
Follow all local ordinances and guidelines for park and trail use.
Please continue to monitor the Park District website for future updates.