Council supports opening splash pads, modified summer programs and patio season

RICHMOND HILL – The City continues to take a gradual and phased reopening approach to protect the community and staff from the risk of COVID-19. At a meeting on June 24, Richmond Hill Council received presentations outlining the Stage 2 reopening plan for recreation services, as well as more help for local businesses. 

This year, summer programming looks a little different in Richmond Hill. The City is happy to provide a variety of recreation options to keep children active, engage their imaginations and unleash their creativity while at home or in a physically distant environment. City staff have developed three exciting summer experience options while keeping health and safety the top priority:

Virtual programming (July 20 to August 28) – Online programs for ages 4 to 14 include theatre, Junior LIT, art, dance, poetry and a parent/caregiver and child program. Participants will interact with instructors through Zoom, learn new skills and work towards a goal such as a virtual performance, art show, poetry session and more.

Activity kits – Parents can purchase arts and crafts kits and/or a nature-themed activity box that they can do at home with their children.

Phyllis Rawlinson Park Adventure Program (Tuesdays and Thursdays/July 20 to August 28) – Recreation staff will lead participants through nature activities, as well as arts and crafts specifically designed for kids to have fun while maintaining physical distancing. Parents/caregivers will be required to stay on site and be available to help their child with the activities and/or personal care if needed.

Program registration and activity kit ordering begins online on Tuesday, June 30 at 7 a.m. for residents. Limited spots and kits are available. Activity kits will be distributed through curbside pickup at Oak Ridges Community Centre beginning July 13. Details are available online at RichmondHill.ca/RecGuide. 

The City has also begun reopening splash pads. Ten locations are now open, with Lake Wilcox, Rouge Crest, Crosby Park and Richvale Athletic Field to follow soon. Residents are reminded to practice physical distancing, wash their hands regularly and do not congregate in groups of more than 10. Splash pad locations and opening updates can be found at RichmondHill.ca/SplashPads. 

Staff also announced that wedding ceremonies and funeral services for groups of up to 50 people will be permitted at Richmond Green.

In addition, the City continues to support local businesses by allowing new patios, patio expansions and outdoor sales and display areas on privately-owned land. Guidelines are available at RichmondHill.ca/HelpforBusinesses. 

The main Municipal Offices remain closed to the public. However, the Access Richmond Hill contact centre is available to respond to general inquiries by email at access@richmondhill.ca or by phone at 905-771-8800 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and temporarily on Saturdays and Sundays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

For updates on City services, what’s open and what’s closed, visit RichmondHill.ca/COVID19.

Quotes

“Stage 2 is another positive step forward for Richmond Hill and I thank everyone for their patience and support as we take the necessary precautions to reopen. We are excited to be able to open our splash pads, offer alternative summer activities and further support our local businesses. The people of Richmond Hill have worked together to reduce the spread of COVID-19, but we must all continue to be vigilant to continue to protect our friends, family and neighbours.” - Mayor Dave Barrow

Contact
Kathleen Graver, Manager, Communication Services
kathleen.graver@richmondhill.ca