FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
City of Ithaca Shares Winter Safety and Access Reminders for Parks and Trails
Ithaca, NY – 1/6/2026 – As winter weather settles in, the City of Ithaca is reminding community members of important seasonal changes and safety considerations when visiting City parks, including Cass Park, Stewart Park, and neighborhood parks throughout the city. The Ithaca Youth Bureau manages both Cass Park and Stewart Park on behalf of the City and encourages all visitors to enjoy these spaces safely and responsibly during the colder months.
Seasonal Restroom Closures
The City has closed all seasonal restrooms at Cass Park and Stewart Park, including the Stewart Park Splash Pad Restrooms. Throughout the winter months, heated restrooms remain available at: Cass Park Ice Rink (during building hours) and Stewart Park’s Wharton Studio Building (during open hours)
Trail Conditions and Winter Maintenance
Trails within City parks receive limited maintenance throughout the winter season. The Cayuga Waterfront Trail is not maintained during the winter months, except for limited stretches within Cass Park and Stewart Park, as time, staffing, and equipment availability allow. Winter conditions can change quickly. Snow, ice, uneven surfaces, fallen branches, and reduced visibility may be present at any time. Trail users proceed at their own risk and are encouraged to use caution, choose proper footwear, and avoid trail use during or immediately after storms.
New Seasonal Hours at Stewart Park
Due to increased vandalism, illegal dumping, and other after-hours activity, Stewart Park will operate on a dawn-to-dusk schedule through the winter season. No one is permitted in the park after dark and IPD will be increasing patrols in the park. This temporary adjustment enhances public safety, protects City property, and supports efficient park operations. Standard hours are expected to resume in the spring.
Safety Reminder: Stay Off Frozen Bodies of Water
For the public’s safety, no individual may enter, walk, skate, or otherwise travel on frozen bodies of water within or connected to any City park. This includes: Lakes, Ponds, Creeks, Inlets, other connected waterways. Ice conditions are highly variable and often unsafe, even when surfaces appear frozen. Visitors are urged to admire winter landscapes from solid ground only.
Winter Playground Safety
Playground equipment remains open during the winter, but surfaces can become icy, slick, or covered by snow, which may hide hazards such as uneven ground or gaps in surfacing. Ground surfaces harden when frozen, increasing the risk of injury from falls. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to check equipment for ice before use. Ensure children wear proper winter footwear and gloves. Avoid play when equipment or surfaces are visibly icy, snow-covered, or otherwise obstructed. Stay within arm’s reach of younger children.
Playgrounds are joyful winter destinations—but extra attentiveness helps keep them safe.
Skatepark Safety in Cold Weather
The Ithaca Skatepark remains open year-round; however, concrete surfaces can become more brittle and slippery during cold temperatures, increasing the risk of falls or equipment damage. Skaters should use the park only when surfaces are dry and free of ice or snow Do not use salt, metal shovels, or other tools to try to clear the skatepark as they will damage the surface. Wear appropriate protective gear Be cautious of reduced traction and slower reaction times in cold weather Avoid skating during active snowfall or shortly after storms If conditions seem unsafe, skaters are encouraged to wait for clearer, drier weather.
Winter Wildlife and Habitat Protection
Winter is an especially vulnerable season for local wildlife. To help protect animal habitats and minimize stress on wildlife: Keep dogs leashed at all times (a year-round requirement in all City managed parks and natural area). Stay on designated paths. Give wildlife ample space, especially during dawn and dusk. Enjoy the winter beauty while giving animals the room and quiet they need to conserve energy. Reporting Park Concerns. Community members play an important role in helping the City identify issues quickly.
For non-emergency maintenance issues or general park concerns, residents are encouraged to use SeeClickFix (via app or web) to submit detailed reports, including photos when possible. You may also email park-specific concerns to: Stewart Park: stewartpark@cityofithaca.org; Cass Park: casspark@cityofithaca.org; Neighborhood Parks: neighborhoodparks@cityofithaca.org
For issues that are illegal, dangerous, or potentially life-threatening, please call 911 immediately so that emergency responders can be dispatched as quickly as possible.
The City of Ithaca and the Ithaca Youth Bureau thank community members for their partnership in keeping our parks safe, welcoming, and well cared for throughout the winter season. For additional information about winter park operations, please contact:
Media Contact: Gregg Houck, Youth Bureau Director, Ithaca Youth Bureau, City of Ithaca (607) 273-8364 | ghouck@cityofithaca.org
