The question of whether or not the Sunnyside Pool in Atlantic will open this summer, remains up in the air. The short answer is: It depends on the State and CDC. The Atlantic Parks and Recreation Board discussed the issue during their meeting Monday evening, but did not make a decision on the status of the pool. According to reports, the Board was leaning toward not re-opening, after hearing from Parks and Rec Director Bryant Rasmussen, who said they would need to hire more staff, just to handle issues associated with COVID-19 and the CDC guidelines for opening such a facility.

Board Chair Stuart Dusenberry questioned if people would come if they opened the pool, which is losing approximately $30,000 on a good year. The Board was of the consensus that health and safety should come before anything else, and waited for further guidance from Governor Reynolds, but as of now, the pool will not be opening this summer.  If the Governor gives the green light, the Parks and Rec Board would hold a special meeting to look at re-opening the pool. Other communities, such as Walnut, have decided to close their water recreation centers, such as the popular Walnut Splash Pad.

Aside from the pool matter, the Atlantic Parks and Recreation Board approved the opening up of the Dog Park, but signs will remind users about social distancing guidelines. The City’s basketball and pickleball areas are also open, as long as people bring their own equipment and follow social distancing guidelines. Bryant Rasmussen mentioned as well, that there are still some raised beds available in the Community Garden at Mollett Park available for rent.