Frankenmuth

Since the start of this pandemic, public parks, both locally and across the nation, have seen a surge in use. Parks provide open space and opportunity for people to simply get some fresh air, to maintain mental health, and plenty of reasons in between. As we learned more about Covid-19 and how it spreads, the City's Parks & Recreation staff evaluated the parks and their operations to determine what could be done to make the parks experience safer for residents and employees. Through that evaluation, two areas of concern rose to the top of the list for health concerns and the potential for disease transmission: 1) commonly touched surfaces in the parks, and 2) potential airborne disease transmission in the park's public restrooms. The concern of commonly touched surfaces was addressed fairly easily when suppliers caught up with demand and hand sanitizer became more available. Dispensers were deployed at various locations throughout city parks. The public is encouraged to use hand sanitizer as frequently as possible to reduce the chances of disease transmission on commonly touched surfaces. As an added measure, Parks staff have also been disinfecting playground equipment a couple times per week during the warmer months. The potential of airborne disease transmission inside public park restrooms was a more challenging issue. While the goal of keeping the air inside restrooms clean is fairly straight forward, how to do this effectively and efficiently was more complicated. After looking at various systems including automatic ultraviolet (UV) treatment, staff turned to something in parks that is free and typically plentiful - fresh air. They just had to come up with a way to get that fresh air into the bathrooms and get the air in the bathrooms out quickly. HIGH FLOW EXHAUST SYSTEMS WERE INSTALLED IN FIVE PARK BATHROOM BUILDINGS TO REMOVE THE INDOOR AIR AND REPLACE IT WITH FRESH OUTDOOR AIR. THE AIR TURNOVER IN THESE RESTROOMS IS NOW 2-3 TIMES HIGHER THAN THE AMOUNT REQUIRED BY CODES. This upgrade should put park users at ease when 'nature' calls while using the parks. There should be less reluctance to use the park restrooms over concerns of airborne disease (and be sure to wash your hands). To make the deal more attractive, in August, the Parks & Recreation Department applied for, and was awarded, a $9,585 COVID safety grant from the State of Michigan to help offset the cost of these projects. These projects are just some of the behind-the-scenes work that the city is doing on a regular basis to keep Frankenmuth clean, safe, and appealing to our residents and visitors. Facility Rentals in Frankenmuth ––––––––––––––––– PAVILIONS Planning a reunion, company picnic, meeting, or a family gathering? Looking for a dependable outdoor space during these unpredictable times? Frankenmuth Parks and Recreation invites you to rent a covered pavilion in Heritage Park for your next event! Each pavilion has two charcoal grills, electricity, and tables to seat 150 people. Choose from four spacious pavilions. Contact us to reserve your date before they fill up! HALL RENTAL (SCOUT BUILDING) Looking for a place to hold a party, meeting or other event? The Frankenmuth Scout Building is available to rent for your upcoming event. With a large meeting room, stage and kitchen facilities, it is an ideal place for your special occasion! Seating capacity: 85 people. WEDDINGS Recently engaged or planning a wedding? We have three unique outdoor locations in Memorial Park to consider for your wedding ceremony: the Rose Garden, the Bandshell, and the Riverfront. These unique locations each have beautiful landscaping, florals and plenty of picturesque photo opportunities. Call now if you are interested in using part of Memorial Park for your wedding ceremony. To rent one of these facilities, please email us at Parks@frankenmuthCity.com or call us at 989-652-3440. WHEN 'NATURE' CALLS PARK (BATHROOMS) PROVIDE FRESH AIR 5

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