Kensington Metropark Splash Pad Closed After Worker Tests Positive For COVID-19

kensington splash pad
Photo credit (Credit: Huron-Clinton Metroparks)

(WWJ) The splash pad at Kensington Metropark is closed, at least temporarily, due to concerns about the coronavirus.

The Huron-Clinton Metroparks Authority made the announcement Tuesday, disclosing that a worker at the "Splash 'N Blast" tested positive for COVID-19. 

Officials say because the infected employee was outdoors it is "highly unlikely" that anyone at the splash pad would have been considered in "close, sustained contact." 

“Ensuring the health and safety of park visitors and employees is always our top priority. That’s why we temporarily closed the Kensington splash pad to do a further deep cleaning and make this public notification as an added precaution on top of local, state and federal guidance," said Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority Director Amy McMillan, in a statement. "Metroparks is committed to communicating every step of the way and going above and beyond to help protect our visitors, team and communities against this virus.”

McMillan shared the following additional details:

  • The employee last worked on Thursday, July 23, completed Metroparks’ health screening form protocol upon arrival, and wore a mask as required the entire shift.
  • The employee was not symptomatic when they worked on July 23.
  • The employee was tested on Saturday, July 25 after a friend tested positive. The employee’s COVID-positive results were reported and received by the Metroparks Monday evening, July 27. The Oakland County Health Department was notified immediately upon opening on Tuesday, July 28.
  • All Metroparks employees who worked in close contact (six individuals) were notified immediately and instructed to self-quarantine for 14 days.
  • The Splash ‘N’ Blast opened in late June with capacity limits and operating adjustments, including three sessions capped at 50% capacity available each day, modified layouts in standing and seating areas, social distancing requirements, and enhanced sanitation of high-touch areas and equipment.

The Metroparks did not name the ill employee, release an age, or say how he or she is doing. 

Officials say the Metroparks has implemented numerous other COVID-19 preventive measures to help assure everyone’s safety while keeping the 13 Metroparks outdoor spaces open. The public can visit Metroparks.com/covid for the latest news and updates, including procedures for capacity monitoring and temporary intermittent closures.

Under executive order by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, indoor public pools and water parks in Michigan remain closed, while outdoor facilities are permitted to operate. In Oakland County, however, Oakland County Parks and Recreation made the decision — with unput from the health department — to keep its water parks closed for the 2020 season.