Some Columbus parks and rec facilities start re-opening amid COVID-19. Here’s a list

Columbus facilities are starting to open up after two months of coronavirus-related closures, starting with city buildings like the government center and parks and recreation amenities like Lake Oliver Marina off River Road.

The city opened the marina Monday for a soft opening, ending several weeks of citizens being unable to purchase bait at the clubhouse or pay to launch their boats.

People have still been able to access the water, but starting Monday citizens are once again asked to stop by the clubhouse and pay the $4 fee.

Mark Guillaume, a regular who says down he’s at the water every day, was sitting at a picnic table Monday morning in his fishing attire. He was joined by fellow regular Robert Martin.

Guillaume said the marina didn’t slow down despite the clubhouse being closed.

“It’s been busier,” he said. “There’s been probably on average during the week anywhere from 50-75 people a day at least, or more. And on the weekends...there was probably 200 down here yesterday. Every parking space was full.”

Kayaking, paddle boarding and boating have been the main activities the two said they’ve observed.

“Ain’t no where else to go,” Martin said. “Where else are you going to go in Columbus?”

Guillaume joked he wasn’t inclined to start paying to launch his boat now that it has been free for a few months.

“Y’all going to have to run after me and catch me then, I’ve got too used to getting by not paying for it,” he said.

The two men said the main question people have asked them is where the restrooms are. An outdoor restroom facility was bulldozed some time ago, and the only restrooms in the vicinity are inside the clubhouse.

“They should have (portable toilets) out here for people to use, this is a city-operated park,” Martin said. “They should have that.”

Drinks are available for purchase at the clubhouse, and gas will be available starting Tuesday. Food is not being served yet.

Other parks and facilities that are open as of Monday include Cooper Creek Tennis Center, The Ma Rainey House and all Columbus parks, except for Jonathan Hatcher Skateboard Park. Bull Creek Golf Course, disc golf, park restrooms and trails are also open.

Amenities still closed include:

• Playgrounds, pavilions and exercise equipment

• Athletic fields for all sports including softball, baseball, basketball, soccer etc.

• All other recreation centers and senior centers

• The Aquatics Center

• Outdoor pools

• Summer camps

• Soccer Complex

• Britt David Pottery

• Therapeutic Recreation

City Manager Isaiah Hugley said during a town hall meeting last week that these facilities will be re-evaluated for reopening on or before June 12.