School is finally out for the summer. The sun is shining and it is typically time for summer fun and exploration. However, this year, we have been asked to stay at home, maintain social distancing, and many of the activities that occupied our summer days have been canceled or the facilities are still closed.
So what is there to do?
The City of Longmont still has many of its facilities closed, such as the Recreation Center, but it is offering many other activities:
The library
Under a process begun this week, residents will be able to use the Longmont Public Library, located at 409 4th Ave, in a new way. It is offering curbside pickup and drop-off.
Pickup services are available 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Patrons are being asked to follow the following process for the pickup and drop-off of library materials:
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For faster service, bring a cell phone and your library card number when you come to the library;
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Drive or walk up to Library at the east side/Emery Street entrance;
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Call the phone number on the signs in parking lot, 303-651-8476;
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A library staff member will check out items to patron, and assign either Table 1, 2 or 3 outside for hold pickup;
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The library staff member stationed at the east entrance will deliver materials to the assigned table where the patron will pick them up;
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The staff member stationed at the east entrance can also help patrons who do not have a cell phone;
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Patrons returning materials should place them in one of the two book drops. Do not place them on the checkout tables.
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This process may change as needs arise.
City parks
City parks are opening up some of their amenities. Playgrounds, shelters, and picnic areas remain closed. However, tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts, golf and disc golf courses and wheel parks are open. Special guidelines are posted in these areas with additional requirements for public health and safety.
Residents can also schedule a round of golf or spend some time at the driving range. Patrons must call ahead to schedule a tee time and time at the driving range. Social distancing procedures are strictly enforced. Visit here to learn more about the guidelines.
Union Reservoir is open to patrons with many of the same activities available. Patrons can enjoy wakeless boating, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. However, the beaches and fishing pier are closed. Drivers are being asked to park in every other space to limit capacity for the reservoir. Once the capacity has been met, it’s a one-in-one-out policy: new visitors will be denied entry until a visitor leaves.
Another activity that remains open to the public is floating along the St. Vrain Creek from Main St. to the 119th St. Trailhead. This activity is free to visitors, however, visitors must provide their own equipment.
In all activities provided by the City of Longmont, patrons are asked to maintain at least a six-foot distance from one another and to wear facial coverings.
All other city recreational facilities are closed until further notice, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
Summer camps
The City of Longmont is offering some summer camps. Special COVID-19 procedures have been put into place to ensure safety.
The Longmont Museum has moved all of its camps online with themes that include “Harry Potter,” “Nature Art,” and “Circus Stars.” Supply kits are designed for each theme and are available for curbside pickup at the museum, 400 Quail Road.
The Longmont Library has taken many of its usual summer and ongoing programs online. Patrons are able to visit the library’s website to participate in storytimes, Spanish/English conversation groups, game playing groups and other activities.
The Longmont YMCA is also offering its annual Camp NOCO with modifications for safety.
Local activities for the family
Visit Longmont has a list of things for families to participate in, including maps of local bike and hiking paths. The list is also aimed at supporting local businesses.
Longmont Downtown Development Authority has a list of events on its site, including online philosophy discussions and Quarantined Art Facebook events.
Do you have an event you want to share? Please feel free to post it on our calendar.
