Updated May 21 at 4:45 p.m. re: splash pads

RICHMOND HILL – Yesterday, the Ontario government announced that outdoor recreational amenities can reopen as of Saturday, May 22.

Effective this Saturday, City staff will be working to reopen basketball, tennis and pickleball courts, skate parks, soccer fields (no games or practices), baseball diamonds (no games or practices), outdoor fitness equipment and picnic tables/areas. This process will take some time and residents are asked not to begin using these amenities until all barriers and caution tape have been removed.

Parks, trails, playgrounds and off-leash dog areas are open for residents to enjoy.

The City is aiming to open splash pads in early June.

While City facilities, including the main Municipal Offices at 225 East Beaver Creek Road remain closed to the public, residents can access many City services online, by phone or by appointment. The City is currently planning for future reopenings based on the new provincial framework.

Summer Camps

City staff are working on plans for in-person Summer Camps, but no decisions will be made until provincial reopening guidelines are released. In the meantime, the City is recruiting for Camp Counsellors at RichmondHill.ca/Jobs.

Virtual Recreation Programs

We’ve got virtual programs and at-home resources for all ages including fitness, arts, theatre, astronomy and more, so residents can keep their mind and body active with us at home. Visit RichmondHill.ca/RecGuide for details.

Gathering limits

Effective Saturday, May 22 at 12:01 a.m., outdoor gathering limits for social gatherings and organized public events will be expanded to 5 people, including members of different households.

Help keep our community safe

While the stay-at-home order is in effect, residents are strongly encouraged to stay local and only use parks and trails in their own neighbourhood. Please also continue to practice physical distancing.

Residents are further reminded that you can help stop the spread of COVID-19 by doing the following:

• Wear a mask or face covering indoors, as well as outdoors if you cannot physical distance
• Wash your hands thoroughly and often
• Stay home if you’re sick, even with mild symptoms
• Download the COVID Alert app
• Get vaccinated as soon as you are eligible

Updates and information on the City’s response to COVID-19, including a complete list of what’s open and closed, is available online at RichmondHill.ca/COVID19.

MEDIA CONTACT

Ash O’Malley, Communications Advisor, ash.omalley@richmondhill.ca