Blue Springs Park north of Bronson off U.S. 27A is a bowl-shaped swimming area with steps reaching into the water, a jumping-off dock and pavilions, and a sidewalk surrounding the water. It will reopen Monday, June 1 with new rules and regulations.

By Terry Witt – Spotlight Senior Reporter      

            Levy County Commissioners announced Tuesday they are reopening both of their swimming parks with rules and regulations that include social distancing and limits to the number of people that can gather at the parks.

            Blue Springs Park opens Monday, June 1. The park will open 7 days per week. Henry Beck Park opens Friday, June 5, and will operate on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays.

            Both parks had been closed since the coronavirus outbreak began. The popular swimming parks often attract crowds. State and federal authorities believe the virus is more likely to spread in crowds of 10 or more.

            The Levy County Commission will continue to monitor the situation. The goal is to be fully opened the week of June 15.

            Rules and guidelines below were provided by County Coordinator Wilbur Dean.

            Levy County citizens 65 and older and military active or retired will receive a 50 percent discount.

            There will be a 50 person limit at each park with two timed sessions available.

• Session One: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Session Two: 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Additional Rules for both parks:

• 50 people limit will be counted as the first 50 entering the park
• When limit is reached there will be no new entry until the next session even if people leave
• No drop-offs or re-entry allowed – adult supervision required
• No hanging out in parking lot if you are unable to enter park; you must come back at the time of the next session
• Gate entrance will be monitored and accounted for to abide by the 50 people limit
• Social distancing encouraged and signage will be posted to inform visitors of the need to abide
• Blue Springs jump off dock will be limited to 6 people at a time and spaced 6 feet apart
• Hand sanitizer will be available to the public in bathrooms and in concession area
• Money exchange will be conducted with the use of Plexiglas windows – cash only payments
• No family/individual passes sold this year
• Pavilions will be first come – first serve
• No volleyball or tube rentals.

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Board of County Commission Emergency Meeting May 26, 2020; Posted May 27, 2020