UPDATED: 5/1/2020
**Message from General Manager, Scott Stevenson Regarding Chicago Harbors Closure**
Below are current updates on the COVID-19 response from the Chicago Harbors:
COVID-19 RESPONSE:
- We are monitoring updates and recommendations from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), WHO (World Health Organization), and CDPH (Chicago Department of Public Health) regarding the spread of COVID-19.
- Chicago Harbors Closure: Unfortunately, all docks, parking lots, launch ramps, and other harbor properties are currently closed through May 30th in accordance with current Chicago Park District closures. Boat yard access begins Monday, May 4th with amended policies listed below. Boaters who ignore city orders and attempt to bring their boat into the harbors during the closure could have their permit revoked.
- Chicago Harbors Offices: While our administration office will be closed our office staff will be working remotely and will assist you in any way possible. If you need assistance the office can be reached at 312-741-3601 or by email at westrec@chicagoharbors.com during our normal business hours Monday-Friday 8am-4pm. Most of our forms and resources are readily available at chicagoharbors.com. In addition, payments can be made online or through the mail.
- Individual Harbor Offices: Harbor offices will remain closed until further notice.
2020 CHICAGO BOATING SEASON:
- Chicago Boating Season: In accordance with current Chicago Park District closures, the Chicago Harbors are currently closed through May 30th. Please stay tuned to this page for more updates as soon as we have them regarding the opening of the 2020 boating season. We want to get you on the water as soon as possible.
- Monroe Harbor: We are currently waiting on city authorization to place mooring cans in Monroe Harbor.
- Extended Boating Season: We have received permission from the Chicago Park District to extend the 2020 Chicago Harbors season to November 15th for all customers. Previously only “late leaver” permit holders at Burnham Harbor could stay through that date.
COVID-19 REFUND POLICY:
- Full Refund: We have extended the date for a 100% refund (previously only 80% per Park District by-laws) to May 15th. Please keep in mind, if you cancel your slip or mooring, you will forfeit your assignment and need to reapply to get back into the harbor system.
- Delayed Season: We will be issuing boaters a pro-rata credit for each day the harbors are closed past May 15th. These credits will be towards 2021 mooring fees and boaters will see them on their renewal invoice this fall.
APRIL 15th PAYMENT EXTENSION:
- Payment Due Date: In an effort to accommodate our customers during the COVID-19 pandemic, the April 15th due date for final payments for the 2020 season has been extended to May 15th.
BOAT STORAGE/SPRING LAUNCH:
- Boat Storage Opening: Pursuant with the City of Chicago’s most recent order regarding the ongoing public health crisis, we are pleased to inform our customers that the 31st Street and Montrose Harbor boat yards will open on Monday, May 4th to allow boaters to prepare for the upcoming boating season with the following policies:
- Only two (2) people per boat will be allowed in the boat yard at any time. This applies to both owners and contractors.
- Boat work must be pre-arranged with the boat yard manager at least 24 hours prior to arrival.
- Individuals who arrive without prior approval will not be permitted access.
- Approved individuals entering the yard will be required to check-in with the boat yard manager prior to entering the yard.
- Approved individuals are only allowed in the boat yard during normal operating hours from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
- In accordance with the state mandate, persons in the boat yard must wear proper face masks if they are within six (6) feet of other individuals.
- City social distancing guidelines will be strictly adhered to and social gatherings of persons will not be tolerated.