Tennis Courts Can Reopen In Highland Park Under Mayor's Order

HIGHLAND PARK, IL — For the first time since the statewide stay-at-home order issued in response to the coronavirus pandemic, racket sports will be allowed in Highland Park under a supplemental emergency order issued Thursday by Mayor Nancy Rotering. Outdoor tennis, paddle tennis, platform tennis and pickleball will be permitted, provided that players strictly comply with safety guidelines, according to the order.

Tennis courts have been shuttered in Highland Park since Rotering issued a March 16 supplemental order expressly closing them. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity subsequently announced that it was up to municipalities to decide whether to allow tennis during the COVID-19 public health emergency.

Last month, the United States Tennis Association released guidelines for playing tennis. Under the city's order, those who play other racket sports should try to comply with them as much as possible. They include social distancing measures, minimizing contact, one-on-one games only, staggered bookings, no congregating, alternating courts when possible, handling one's own equipment and more.

The mayor's supplemental order regarding racket sports takes effect Saturday and runs through the governor's updated stay-at-home order. All health and recreation clubs ordered shut by the mayor's March 16 emergency orders will remain closed.

The Park District of Highland Park announced it would reopen courts at Danny Cunniff Park and Larry Fink Park starting Monday by reservation only. All courts will be staffed by a park district tennis professional, and private lessons will be available. Clay courts at Sunset Woods Park are undergoing pre-season maintenance, according to a district spokesperson, and additional courts may open in future weeks.

Earlier: Sunset Valley Golf Club To Reopen Under New Coronavirus Order