The Licking Park District is ringing in the new year with updates that affect park access, amenities, and local photographers.
District officials announced offices will be closed Thursday, Jan. 1 for New Year's Day and Monday, Jan. 19, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Visitors to Infirmary Mound Park will notice easier access this winter following the reopening of Lancaster Road (Route 37) on Dec. 19. The Ohio Department of Transportation completed months of bridge and roadway improvements, restoring a key route to the park, with district leaders expressing appreciation for the work.
Additional enhancements are planned for spring, when new seating will be installed along park trails. The Licking County Health Department awarded funding for 21 recycled plastic benches, valued at about $17,000, through its Creating Healthy Communities Program, while district levy funds will support installation of cement pads. The project continues a partnership that previously added a life jacket loaner station at Infirmary Mound Park.
The district has also announced a new policy that will affect professional and commercial photographers, effective Jan. 1. The district will require an annual permit and a $100 fee for photo sessions deemed professional in nature. The rules apply to shoots involving compensation, props, crews, restricted areas, or activities that could disrupt visitors or damage park resources. Photographers will be issued badges and must display them while working in district parks.
Officials said the change comes after repeated issues with photographers operating without permits, particularly at Infirmary Mound Park. The Board of Park Commissioners adopted the measure to improve compliance and generate revenue. The district noted that similar policies are common across Ohio.
Personal photograph remains exempt from the requirement.
Residents are encouraged to check for program updates or cancellations at https://lickingparkdistrict.com/ or by calling 740-587-2535.
