John bishop park whitehall ohio

The 2020 opening of the splash pad at John Bishop Park was as successful as Whitehall leaders had hoped, said Shannon Sorrell, city parks and recreation director.

Although the city announced its opening in advance, it was clear many people learned the splash pad was open by seeing children enjoying it July 10.

Reservations now are required to use the splash pad -- a tactic designed to manage crowds and allow social distancing amid the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

"Our sign-ups were full by the time we opened (July 10), but the no-shows balanced with the walk-ups," so even families who had not registered had the opportunity to use the splash pad, Sorrell said.

Storms July 10 forced the closure of the splash pad for periods of time, and Sorrell acknowledged that in some instances, inclement weather might cause a family to lose its time spot.

"But we will do all we can to reschedule their time," said Sorrell, adding that a Special Events | Whitehall, OH - Official Website BAT