ROCHELLE – As the state of Illinois entered Phase 4 of its reopening plan, The Flagg-Rochelle Community Park District announced its plans and new regulations for opening some of its summertime amenities.
The park district has plans to reopen with the following recommendations from the state: A face mask when social distancing cannot be maintained, groups of 50 or less, 30 feet of distance from other recreational groups, washed hands before and after and sanitized equipment before and after use.
Other safety recommendations include bringing water from home (onsite drinking fountains for emergency purposes only), using the restroom prior to arrival (on site restrooms for emergency purposes only) and taking garbage home. While there are many new rules and regulations, the park district is happy to be serving the community again.
“Our top priority is the health and safety of the entire community so we have followed all the guidelines and opened accordingly,” park district executive director Jackee Ohlinger said. “We are really looking forward to seeing everybody again. It is great weather outside and we are hoping people get outside to get some vitamin D, some fresh air and enjoy the parks.”

The park district has been operating and will continue to operate within the applicable parameters set forth by the Governor’s Office, CDC and IDPH. The park district has prepared all of its amenities for public use and will be hanging signs at each of the locations so patrons clearly understand the guidelines.
The park district appreciates everyone’s patience during this time and it will provide any further updates and modifications on best safety practices as they are received. The park district would like to thank the community for its support and effort to keep everybody safe during the past few months.
The park district office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Skare Park Driving Range is open every day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Additionally, facility and shelter rentals per reservations and parks, playgrounds, the dog park, skate park, bandshell, walking and hiking trails and bike paths are all open.
Basketball courts, tennis courts, Helms track, football fields, baseball diamonds, soccer fields and volleyball courts are all open as well. The Skare Park Disc Golf Course is open and fishing at Lake Sule and Spring Lake are open for the season.
The park district is also offering virtual camps and classes, indoor fitness classes and recreational programming, outdoor youth sports camps and agility training, adult fitness classes and outdoor adult sports leagues. For any further questions or concerns contact the park district office at 815-562-7813.