Officials in Columbus have approved new summer operating hours for both Carver Park and Rigdon Park while continuing efforts to address public safety concerns in the surrounding neighborhoods.
According to a new order issued under Ordinance No. 21-057, the City Manager — in consultation with the Police Chief or Department of Public Health — has the authority to adjust park hours when public safety or health concerns arise.
City leaders said complaints involving disruptive after-dark activity and incidents threatening neighborhood peace prompted officials to previously reduce park hours during the fall and winter months. However, after discussions involving the district councilor, mayor, and police chief, officials agreed that keeping the parks open later during the summer months would better balance recreational needs with public safety.
Under the order:
- Beginning May 19, 2026, Carver Park will close daily from 8 p.m. until 6 a.m. during splash pad season.
- After the splash pad closes for the season, park hours will shift to a 7 p.m. closing until the splash pad reopens in spring 2027.
- Starting May 27, 2026, Rigdon Park will also close daily from 8 p.m. until 6 a.m. during pool season.
- Once the pool season ends, the park will return to a 7 p.m. closing until the pool reopens in spring 2027.
Officials noted the order does not apply to organized activities supervised by the Columbus Parks and Recreation Department.
The temporary changes are scheduled to remain in effect through the 2027 pool season. Afterward, park hours will revert to standard city code unless the order is extended or the ordinance governing park operations is revised.
