One of Central Texas' most beloved outdoor escapes is closing its doors until further notice.

The water park's owner announced the closure on the Summer Fun website Wednesday:

Dan Manzella, owner of Summer Fun Water Park in Belton, posted the following announcement to the park's website Wednesday:

As everyone is aware, the State of Texas is experiencing an exceptional increase in positive Covid-19 tests and hospitalizations. Out of extreme caution for our employees, customers and family members, we are closing until further notice to help curve the spread of Covid-19.

Our customers have always been the heart of our business and we are grateful for all of your years of patronage and support. We sincerely hope to see you all safe and healthy before Labor Day.

Summer Fun Staff

Dan Manzella Owner

Recently, the park had been limiting the number of guests to 350 at one time and following a strict sanitation schedule to keep visitors and staff safe.

This is heartbreaking news, not only because local families have always loved going to Summer Fun as temperatures climb this time of year, but because it's a local business that employs Central Texans.

While it's commendable that they're putting public health and safety first, it's sad to think about a summer without Summer Fun. It was one of my favorite parts of summer vacation growing up.

As a favor to businesses eager to reopen, we can all help slow the spread of this buzzkill COVID-19 garbage by continuing to wear masks in places where physical distancing is difficult, keeping our hands clean and away from our faces, and staying home if we're sick.

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