LYNN — Splash pads will be open by next week despite a recent communication mishap between city departments on Tuesday, according to the Mayor’s office.
A memo was issued by the Lynn Water & Sewer Commission regarding park restrictions related to the water ban in effect.
The press release states: “The DPW is required to shut off all water used for irrigation in parks, playgrounds, and municipal landscapes.”
The same day, an email was sent to residents by Lynn Parks and Recreation with the subject line “Splash pads are closed due to water ban.”
Concerned residents took to Facebook and contacted the LWSC about their worry over the memo and email.
Lynn Water & Sewer Commission Superintendent Matt Comeau clarified to The Item that the splash pads are open for use. After receiving concerns from residents, he contacted the Department of Public Works to ensure that the splash pads are authorized throughout the Level 3 drought.
The DPW responded that splash pads have not been turned on yet because it is not close enough to schools getting out for summer. After being instructed by the Mayor’s office, the department will be working to get the splash pads up and running by Juneteenth.
The drought has been a direct result of below-average rainfall in the month of May. As a result, Lynn’s rivers, streams, and groundwater levels have continued to decline, along with an almost 13% decrease in LWSC reservoir levels.
The main reason for keeping the splash pads open to the community is because of the public health safety concern for residents without air conditioning and other cooling options during the summer, Comeau said.
The splash pads at Flax Pond Park, Kiley Park, Neptune Boulevard Park, and Barry Park will be open by next weekend, according to the Mayor’s office.
The Public Health department has established cooling centers as alternative ways to beat the heat.
The Lynn Senior Center is available for residents aged 60 and older. The Public Health Resource Room in City Hall includes an air-conditioned space and a free lunch for residents aged 18 and younger. These cooling centers will be open during normal business hours.
The Lynn Shelter Association will also be available seven days a week during the summer with the help of city funding, Lisa Tobin, the Public Health Director, said.
Tobin also noted that the city will send out a notice when the Memorial Auditorium is available to residents as a cooling center. More information about future cooling center options for residents will be available on the Lynn Public Health website.
