City Officials Concerned About Behaviour in Parks

On Monday, May 11, municipal parks reopened to provide additional safe areas for walk-through and ride-through. However, City officials are concerned about behaviour that is contrary to the rules put in place to reopen parks that go against current provincial guidelines for Alert Level 4.

“Yesterday, our enforcement staff spoke to many individuals setting up hammocks, holding picnics, using playground equipment and playing frisbee in our municipal parks, all of which are currently prohibited,” explained Mayor Breen.

The public is reminded that city parks are open for walk-though and ride-through only. COVID-19 advisory signage has been posted at entrances and throughout parks and physical barriers have been installed to restrict access to certain park features such as playgrounds. However, staff have noticed individuals crossing over barriers and using these facilities despite the restriction to do so.

“We understand the frustration these restrictions cause and are equally anxious to resume the new normal. We certainly had hoped that opening parks would provide an added activity for individuals and families to enjoy safely while still meeting the guidelines set out by public health officials,” said Mayor Danny Breen.

“Unfortunately, if individuals persist in breaking the rules for our parks we will be forced to close them – an action that no one wants to take as warmer weather makes our parks a desirable location to visit.”

Please note the following important information about municipal parks:

• Gatherings are not permitted; the provincial Alert Level 4 indicates gatherings of 10 or less are permissible for burials, weddings and funerals only – not for day-to-day activities.
• All playgrounds, hard surface courts, dog parks, skate parks, outdoor sports facilities, pools/splash pads and beaches remain closed.
• Informal or regulated sports activities that require contact, including all team sports, are prohibited.
• All picnic areas within City parks are closed. Tables have signs and are wrapped in caution tape. Please do not remove signs/tape.
• Bowring Park Duck Pond will remain closed.
• Dogs are not permitted in city outdoor sporting facilities but are permitted to be walked on-leash in parks and open spaces. Please pick up after your pet.