Ithaca officials are urging residents to take extra care as winter conditions settle into city parks and trails.
The City of Ithaca released new reminders Tuesday outlining seasonal closures, safety rules, and access changes at parks across the city, including Cass Park and Stewart Park.
Seasonal restrooms have closed for the winter after completing the city’s annual winterization process. Heated restrooms remain open at the Cass Park Ice Rink during building hours and inside Stewart Park’s Wharton Studio Building when it’s open.
City officials say most park trails receive limited maintenance during the winter months. The Cayuga Waterfront Trail does not get winter maintenance, except for short stretches in Cass Park and Stewart Park when staffing and equipment allow.
Visitors should expect snow, ice, uneven surfaces, fallen branches, and poor visibility. The city says trail users proceed at their own risk and should wear proper footwear and avoid trails during or right after storms.
Stewart Park will now operate on a dawn-to-dusk schedule throughout the winter. The city made the change after increased vandalism, illegal dumping, and other after-hours activity.
No one may remain in the park after dark, and Ithaca Police will increase patrols. Officials say regular hours are expected to return in the spring.
City leaders are also reminding the public to stay off all frozen bodies of water in or connected to city parks. That includes lakes, ponds, creeks, inlets, and other waterways. Ice conditions can change quickly and remain unsafe even when surfaces look solid.
Playground equipment stays open during winter, but icy and snow-covered surfaces can hide hazards. The city urges parents and caregivers to check equipment for ice, watch children closely, and avoid play when conditions look unsafe.
The Ithaca Skatepark remains open year-round, but officials warn cold temperatures can make concrete slippery and brittle. Skaters should only use the park when surfaces are dry and should avoid clearing snow or ice with tools that could damage the surface.
The city is also asking visitors to help protect wildlife during winter by keeping dogs leashed, staying on marked paths, and giving animals space, especially around dawn and dusk.
Residents can report non-emergency park concerns through SeeClickFix or by emailing the city’s parks staff. Officials say anyone witnessing dangerous or illegal activity should call 911.
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