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Aquatics

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1. Can we wear t-shirts in the pool? Do I need to wear a bathing suit?

All patrons must wear proper swimming attire in the pool. There are additional exceptions for the outdoor pools which are: males can wear athletic shorts with a functional drawstring and boxers/briefs underneath and females can wear athletic shorts with a functional drawstring and panties underneath. Females can also wear a t-shirt with a sports bra underneath.

2. Do we provide towels/lockers?

We do not provide towels. All of the pools have lockers available for patron use. Patrons are encouraged to bring a lock to secure their belongings.

3. Can we use flotation devices?

U.S Coast Guard approved flotation devices (life jackets) are allowed but not inflatable devices or toys. Parents must remain with children in flotation devices and they are not allowed in the deep end. There are a limited number of life jackets available for patron use at each pool.

4. Can we use mask, fins and snorkels?

During recreational swim, only goggles, which cover just the eyes, are allowed. Masks, fins, and snorkels are allowed during lap swim times and snorkel classes.

5. Can we bring noodles, kickboards and other toys?

During recreational swim noodles, kickboards and other swim and exercise aides are not permitted. Toys such as squirt guns, balls and other items that endanger the safety or enjoyment of other swimmers are not permitted.

6. Do I have to get into the water with my child?

Yes, if your child is 5 years old or younger, and/or is less than 4 feet tall, an adult, 18 years or older, must be in the water with them. Children 6 to 9 years old who are more than 4 feet tall can swim on their own, but an adult must be present in the pool area with them.

7. I don’t swim but I would like to come to the pool to exercise. Do I have to come during recreational swim?

If you would like to exercise on your own you can come during any of the lap swim times. Recreational swim is unstructured time for everyone.

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Athletic Field Rentals

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1. How much does it cost to rent a field/basketball court/tennis court?

Turf Field with lights	$60 per hour
Turf Field without light	$40 per hour
Herndon Small Turf Field with lights	$40 per hour
Herndon Small Turf Field without lights	$20 per hour
Grass Field with lights	$40 per hour
Grass Field without lights	$20 per hour
Courts (Basketball and Futsal)	$5 per hour
Tennis Courts	$3 per hour per court

2. What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and what are the requirements?

A Certificate of Insurance is a document that proves that the applicant has Comprehensive General Liability insurance to cover any liability claims, whether personal or damage, which may occur during use of the park property. The City of Durham must be named an additional insured on the policy.

3. Are there any other fees?

• A $15 application fee will be applied to any permit consisting of more than one date (this does not apply until we have confirmed availability and received confirmation to move forward with the rental request). 
• Non-City Residents will be charged an additional $5 fee for court rentals and will be charged $8 per hour per court. This additional fee does not apply to the lighting fee.
• Non-City residents are subject to additional fees.
• Field rentals do not include bases. There are additional fees to rent bases. $250 deposit and $50 per day per set. 

4. What are the field dimensions?

Please visit the Field Options and Dimensions section on the Durham Parks and Recreation website.

5. How do I turn on the lights at a field/court?

• Many of the systems at our courts and fields are scheduled via satellite. In order to have lights for your reservation, you need to pay for the court / lights prior to your reservation. If the lights are manual, a staff member may be assigned to your event to turn the lights on and off.
• To turn on tennis court lights, find the button or switch near the gate and press/flip it.

6. I want to host a community event that is open to the public. Am I allowed to use a field in one of the parks? Do I have to rent it?

We encourage community events that are open to the public! Any organized event on DPR property must have an approved / issued permit.

7. How do I pay for my reservation?

You can pay in-person or online. Visit our website and log in for more information.

8. What is DPR’s refund policy when an event gets rained out?

• For picnic shelters, the event will be taking place, rain or shine.
• For court rentals, we will either allow you to reschedule if there is availability or credit your account for the rainout.   
• Athletic rentals vary, as our turf fields do not close for rain, but our grass fields will be shut down if the rain makes the playing surface unsafe. Accounts can be credited you can work with a staff member to reschedule your event, or you can request a refund check.

9. What do I do if someone is on the facility I have reserved?

At the approved start time of your rental and someone is still on the field, show them the permit and ask them to leave.  If they do not leave, call the non-emergency police number 919-560-4600.

10. Who will the contact person be for my rental?

Each organization should have only one contact person that a DPR staff member will work with. If there is to be a change in your DPR contact, we will let you know right away. If your organization plans on appointing a new point of contact, we ask that you give us as much notice as possible.

11. How do I know when a field is available?

If you are looking for exclusive use of the field, you will need to fill out a Field Request Form on our website. If you are just checking for availability, you can call 919-560-4355 and ask to speak with someone in Athletics in regards to field availability. Any organized activities will require a permit.

12. Is there a non-profit rate?

• Yes - each group would need to produce an IRS determination letter each time they do a rental stating they are covered under, or considered, a 501c3 organization.
• There is a 15% discount on waivable fees. These fees do not include:
  • Application Fee
  • Lining Fee
  • Light Fee

13. How do I make payment?

Pay your balance online, at our Administration Office located at 400 Cleveland Street, or any recreation center.

Online Payment Instructions

How To Make A Payment as an Organization 

• Login Online
• Click “My Account,” located in the top corner. Towards the bottom of the screen, you should see “Organization Services.”
• Click the dropdown arrow in the “Organization Services”  box, then click “View Details” in blue." Here, you may view your current permit by clicking the blue hyperlinked number under “Receipt Information” and then the permit number (highlighted in blue under “Description”).
• Once you are done viewing your permit, go back to “My Account” and click “View Details” again. You should see an option to “Pay Balance.” 
• After clicking “Pay Balance,” you can click “Add to Cart” and “Proceed to Check out.” Enter your information and click “Pay and Finish.” 

How To Make A Payment as an Individual

• Login Online
• Click “My Account,” located in the top corner. 
• In the “Payment and Order Management” box, click “Transaction and Payment History” to view your permit.
• Here, you may view your most recent transactions. Clicking the blue hyperlinked number in each box will lead you to individual transactions. On each receipt, you can get to your permit by clicking the blue highlighted "Permit #" that always starts with the letter "R".
• After viewing, please click "My Account" and then "Pay on Account."

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Bull City Reels on Wheels

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1. Can I leave my vehicle engine running during the movie?

No, only run the vehicle to clear your windows.

2. Can I sit outside?

Watch from the comfort of your vehicle or bring your own chairs and sit directly in front of your vehicle. You are also welcome to sit in the box of your truck or park your SUV backwards and open your hatch.

3. Where can I park or setup my chairs? Where is the best spot?

Parking attendants will direct you to your space. Groups will be physically distanced from each other. We will also put those arriving without cars and more compact cars closer to the screen and taller vehicles a bit further away. Please note that there will not be a bad seat in the house so to speak. The screen will be elevated and have a clear line of sight from all spaces.

4. Can I let my children run around?

No, remember there are cars driving around. Please keep yourself and your family members in or around your vehicle unless you are visiting a food truck or need to use the restroom facilities.

5. Can I bring my dog?

No dogs or pets are permitted on the grounds. Staff will refuse admission to those bringing pets in. If found after you park you will be asked to leave.

6. Are restrooms available?

Yes, restrooms will be provided. Protocols for physical distancing are in place and a washroom attendant will be disinfecting handles and faucets regularly. 

7. Can I smoke?

Smoking is prohibited. There will not be any designated smoking areas available

8. Can I bring alcohol or cannabis?

No. Leave it at home. No consumption of alcohol or smoking/vaping of any kind will be allowed on the premises. Driving while under the influence is illegal.  

9. Can I reserve a ticket at the gate?

No. Reservations will be taken online until we are full or until 3 p.m. on the day of the event.

10. What happens if it rains?

The movie plays rain or shine or snow. In the case of fog or high winds, and we are unable to see the movie on the screen, the event will be rescheduled to the next night if possible. If rescheduling to the following evening is not possible, the event will be canceled. Please check the Bull City Reels on Wheels page for updates.

11. Can I get in after the show starts?

Yes. We do not shut the gates unless we are full. You can come in anytime during the movie.

12. Do I need a car or can I walk-in?

You are not required to have a car. With the change in Covid mandates, you do not need to have a car to participate. You will need to reserve a spot though for your party if you plan to walk, ride the bus, or ride your bike to the event. If you do not plan to drive your car to the event, you will need to have your entire group at the gate to check-in at one time and will be directed to a space for seating. We will be able to accommodate up to 6 people per non-car reservation. Be sure to bring chairs as seating is not provided and please note the event will be held in the gravel parking lot.

13. I have friends arriving later. Can I reserve a spot next to mine for them?

No. Every spot is first-come, first-serve. Attendees will be assigned spots in the order that they arrive.

14. Can I park backwards?

Yes. You can pull in backwards and sit in the back of your vehicle. However, your back hatch must be tied down to the level of your roof so that you won’t block people behind you. Vehicles that plan to open their hatch will be placed further back from the screen.

15. Can I leave and come back in?

No. Please see the staff in the event you have an emergency and need to leave. They will help safely guide you out of the event are. For the most part, no in and out privileges.  

16. Are there any restrictions on the use of my stereo, like for example the volume?

Volume and bass are restricted especially if other patrons complain; use your common sense. In the event of complaints, the sound must be turned down. Also, we only allow patrons to listen to our station while on the property (including before and during the shows and intermission). If you are playing a commercial station or a CD make sure you can only hear it in your own vehicle. Again, it’s always good to check with your neighbors on this sort of thing before they might complain to us. If you refuse to abide by these rules you will be asked to leave the premises.  

17. Can I talk during the movie?

Yes. That’s the nice thing about going to the drive-in, you can talk during the movie! However, please be considerate of those around you; don’t yell or use profanity to disturb others. Think about what you do before you do it.

18. How do I turn off my headlights and tail lights?

Every vehicle is different. You will need to Google or contact your manufacturer on how to keep your lights off when the key is on. Please do this before coming to the Drive-in. One common way is to just turn your auto lights off. Another is to turn your vehicle off, apply the parking brake and the lights will stay off. This does not work for all vehicles. If this does not work, please bring cardboard to cover your headlights. Every car has a trick to keeping the running lights off.

19. Will my battery die? And if so, what do I do?

Leaving your radio on should not kill your battery. In the event that it does die, please have a pair of jumper cables on hand for assistance.

20. How big is the drive-in screen?

The park Drive-In’s screen stands 4 feet off the ground and is 20 feet high by 40 feet wide.

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Durham Armory Annual Reservation Meeting

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1. When can I reserve the Armory for a date in 2024?

We will open the books for 2024 on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at our annual Booking Meeting. Doors will open at 7:30am and will close promptly at 8:30am so the meeting can begin. 

2. What if I arrive late to the Booking Meeting?

If you arrive after the doors are closed at 8:30am, you will not be allowed to participate and will have to wait until May 10, 2023, to submit your reservation request. We encourage you to arrive by 8:15am.

3. Where will the 2024 Armory Booking Meeting take place?

The meeting will take place at The Durham Armory, 220 Foster Street, Durham NC. 

4. How long will the scheduling meeting take?

We recommend setting aside 2 to 3 hours for the meeting. It takes a while to go through all the numbers in order, set up all the reservations, and take payments.

5. Is there on-site parking available for the meeting?

We do not have onsite parking. You must park in the parking garage or any available street parking. Please be mindful that you may have to pay to park.

6. Do I have to pay the day I make the reservation?

Yes, you will be required to pay the security deposit and application fee before leaving. If you cannot pay the security deposit and application fee, we will delete the reservation and open the date up for another client. We will accept cash (exact amount), credit cards, and checks. No credit cards will be taken over the phone. You will need the actual card to swipe. We do not accept ApplePay, CashApp, or any other money transfer protocols. All other fees will be due 45 days prior to the requested date of use.

7. How will DPR determine who gets to choose the first date?

Every client will be given the opportunity to pick a number. This number will determine in what order you will be called to pick your date. If your date is already taken by either another client or DPR, you will need to choose an alternate date. We suggest you have at least 3 dates to choose from.

8. Can I leave a voicemail or send an e-mail to Reservations requesting a date? Or do I have to be at the meeting in person?

To have the best chance of getting your desired date you should attend the meeting. We will not take reservations via telephone, e-mail, or the online request form until May 10, 2023.

9. If I am not able to attend, can I send someone in my place?

Yes, but they have to know your top 3 dates in case your top choice is no longer available. They also need your personal information (full name, date of birth, email address, and mailing address) to set up or confirm your account. They must be able to pay the deposit and application fee during the meeting.

10. Can I bring multiple people to participate in the lottery?

No. Only one person per event will be allowed to draw a number to determine their place in the selection process.

11. Can I reserve more than one date when my number is called?

You can reserve consecutive dates (ex. March 13 & March 14) at the same time. 

You cannot reserve nonconsecutive dates (ex. March 13 & July 3) at the same time.

12. How do I select a second date if my dates are nonconsecutive?

After all the numbers have been called, that will conclude the first round, and the second round will begin. Numbers will be called in the same order.

13. How long will the Booking Meeting take?

We recommend setting aside 2-3 hours for the meeting. 

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Durham Girls Soccer League

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1. My receipt says that I will have my practices at a certain field. How do I change that?

Our system is set-up to reserve facilities for every “Activity Number.” Your child’s activity number, whether it be the 6-8 division, the 9-10 division, or the 11-13 division, is associated with a field in our system when you register, but not for practices or games. At this time, coaches decide when and where practices will be based on our field availability, and they are consistent throughout the season. Your coach will let you know about your practice day, time, and location after registration is closed and you have been assigned to a team. The majority of coaches do not change their practice day, time, or location in-between seasons, but they do have the ability to do so. 

2. I would like my daughter to move up an age group. How can I do that?

Starting in the fall 2019 season, the only exception that will be made for players to register for an older division will be if their pre-existing team decides to move up, and they want to stay with their team. We are not able to allow individuals to play up based off of size or skill level, but will make exceptions if a player wants to stay with their team.

3. I would like my daughter to be on a different team than the one she was on last year? How do I make sure that happens?

If your schedule has changed, or you were dissatisfied with the team you were on in the previous season, you will certainly need to let the league coordinator know. If your schedule has changed, simply adjust that information when registering. If you were dissatisfied with the previous coach or team, please contact the league coordinator immediately and inform him/her of any issues. If you have any issues during the season, please contact the league coordinator immediately. 

4. When does my child get her uniform?

Uniforms are handed out to the coaches during the first few practices of the fall season. Please be sure to update your child’s shirt size every time you register. If you are registering your daughter to play in DGSL for the first time in the spring, your coach will give you a shirt at one of your first practices.

5. I have more than one daughter playing in DGSL. How do I make sure my daughters all practice on the same day at the same location?

The league coordinator attempts each season to create rosters based off of every registrant’s requests. There will be situations in which siblings, friends, classmates, or neighbors cannot be placed on the same team, practice night or location, but the coordinator takes all requests into account and will manage the rosters accordingly. When registering, please indicate any preference or request at the time of registration. If a certain “request” is absolutely necessary, then please indicate that as well. If these requests/needs are unable to be met, the league coordinator will contact you after registration is complete.

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Facility Rentals

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1. When will I receive a key for the building?

• The building will be opened and closed by a facility attendant. The attendant will stay on site during your event to assist you with any issues or concerns that may arise.
• The attendant is not authorized to extend hours of the rental or allow renter to have possession of the key to the facility.

2. Will I need to bring trash bags, toilet paper or paper towels?

• The following items are available for renter use: 
  • trash bags
  • trash cans
  • recycling bins
  • toilet paper
  • paper towels
  • hand soap
  • mop & bucket
  • broom
• The following items will NOT be provided but may be needed by the customer: 
  • dish detergent
  • general disinfectant to clean counters and tables
  • dishcloths
  • Kitchens are not stocked; renters may need to bring: utensils, pans, linens, etc.

3. How much cleaning will I need to do once my event is over?

• Renters are responsible for:
  • bagging all trash and placing it in the dumpster/designated location
  • removing all food and utensils
  • removing all props and decorations: including tape, string or streamers, balloons
  • tables and chairs must be put back the way they were found
• Renters must immediately clean up any spills
• Renters must report any malfunctions or damage to the facility

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High Ropes Discovery Course

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1. What is the purpose of the High Ropes Discovery Course?

The High Ropes Discovery Course is designed to challenge an individual’s perceived limitations and sense of adventure, as well as build self-esteem and teach reliance upon others. Above all, it’s intended as an enjoyable “peak” experience for participants.

2. Do I need a group to do the course?

In general, the course is for group use. Groups can be made of several families who want to try the course or other community and corporate groups. Individuals who wish to try the course may register for the High Ropes Discovery Day programs which are offered at various times throughout the year.

3. How old do I have to be?

The course is open to participants 7 years and older. Youth ages 7 to 9 must have a parent accompany and guide them on the course.

4. How long does it take to complete the course?

Every group is different, but a program typically lasts four hours from ground school to course completion.

5. What type of clothes should I wear?

Athletic-type wear is recommended-clothing in which you can move comfortably. Closed-toe shoes are required for participation.

6. Do you give group discounts?

Our fees are competitively set for the Triangle market and are approved by Durham City Council on an annual basis. Because they are approved annually, we do not have the ability to negotiate fees.

7. Can I register online?

Not at the moment, but coming soon!

8. When is payment due?

A $100 deposit is due within five (5) business days of initial consultation and commitment; full payment, with registration forms, is due by the day before the scheduled program or within thirty (30) days, whichever is sooner.

9. How many can I bring?

The number of participants we take on the course at any given time is age-dependent, so we recommend you call and discuss your group’s makeup.

10. Where is the course located?

The course is located in Bethesda Park at 1814 Stage Road in Durham.

11. What happens if it rains?

Programs go forward in mild inclement weather, i.e. light rain, light wind and chilly weather. Extreme heat (95 degrees+), cold, wind and dangerous storm conditions which endanger the safety of the participant may result in the postponement or cancellation of the program.

12. How high is the course?

At its peak, the course is 55 feet high!

13. What makes the course different than other high ropes courses?

The High Ropes Discovery Course allows individuals to choose their own path through the structure, as opposed to having a pre-determined route. That flexibility empowers participants to decide how much challenge they desire.

14. What kind of training do the staff facilitators have?

In addition to years of outdoor leadership experience, our staff are all Association for Challenge Course Technology (ACCT) certified high and low course practitioners.

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Splash & Play Project

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1. Is the City building pools at 3 park sites?

No decisions have been made. The consultant team will first evaluate existing structures and determine the feasibility of different facilities at each site. We will ask East Durham residents what features they would like to see.

2. Why is the City doing this project?

Durham prepared and adopted the Aquatics Facilities Master Plan in 2017 to guide development and placement of future aquatics facilities. The sites being studied were identified as underserved due to age or lack of facilities. Long Meadow pool dates from 1963.

3. Why did the Wheels Fun Park close?

Wheels Fun Park closed during COVID-19 and was acquired by the City in 2021. Most recently, it was used by Duke Health as a testing/vaccination site. We are seeking public input to help determine the 8-acre site’s future.

4. When did this project begin?

The project is just getting underway. Estimated completion of the study and conceptual designs is Fall 2022.

5. Who is working on the project besides DPR?

The General Services Department is managing the project with input from Neighborhood Improvement Services to ensure equitable participation. We will be working with residents, churches, schools, and many other organizations in East Durham, guided by the spirit and intent of the Equitable Community Engagement Blueprint.

A committee of Durham residents, many that live and work in the project areas, will meet monthly with the consultant team and staff to plan engagement activities and review project materials and concepts. The team will utilize community residents, including youth, to distribute and share information and lead/participate in events. Compensation is available.

6. Our family prefers rollerskating and go-karts over swimming. We were sad to see Wheels go.

No decisions have been made about the site’s future. The consultant team will evaluate the facilities and develop recreation concepts for the 8-acre site. Plans will likely include an outdoor aquatics facility, as identified in the Aquatics Facilities Master Plan. The same process will occur at the other two sites.

7. Is this project related to Merrick-Moore Park?

Improvement to the Wheels site will become part of the overall recreation system for the east side of the City, as well as supplement and complement recreation facilities at Merrick-Moore Park, formerly referred to as Hoover Road Park or Park on Hoover Road.

8. It is not convenient for me to come to a meeting. How can I learn more or tell you what I want?

Our team of consultants, staff and residents will be at your church, bus stop, school, recreation center, as well as events in the community. We will post information on the DPR website, Facebook, Instagram, “Be Connected Durham”, and in the existing newsletter. For information about upcoming engagement events, visit our website calendar.

9. Is this information available in Spanish?

Yes, you will be able to view translated material. Printed handouts and surveys, as well as a translator will be on hand at events.