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Newmarket easing its way into reopening, mayor says

'We need to take the time to consider the right way forward for Newmarket and we hope our community will appreciate the challenges ahead and support us as we work together to rebuild,' John Taylor says

Newmarkettoday.ca
May 17, 2020

As the province begins to lift restrictions and enters into the first stage of the government’s reopening framework, Newmarket residents, community groups and businesses are looking for answers on what these announcements mean to them locally.

Town leadership will swiftly analyze each announcement with a specific Newmarket lens to develop modified procedures and operations with the health and safety of its residents and staff top of mind.

“We’re entering a complex new way of operating our essential services, businesses, homes and family life,” says Mayor John Taylor. “Opening services or facilities must be done in a manner that is safe for our residents and staff, which is why each announcement will not be implemented instantly; we need to take the time to consider the right way forward for Newmarket and we hope our community will appreciate the challenges ahead and support us as we work together to rebuild.”

Physical distancing

The number one consideration continues to be public health, through the guidance of experts at the region and province. This long weekend, and as the town and province continue to reopen, residents are asked to keep the recommended six-foot / two-metre distance between themselves and anyone outside their immediate household.

Parks & Sports Areas

Park amenities (playground equipment, basketball nets and outdoor fitness equipment, etc.), sport fields, diamonds and courts all remain closed. Once the province lifts these restrictions, the town will assess, address and communicate these changes.

Residents are still invited to enjoy the open space in parks, a measure the Town of Newmarket allowed earlier to give more space for residents to get fresh air and exercise while physically distancing.

Bylaw officers and education ambassadors will be out this long weekend and ask residents to continue to keep their physical distance and to groups of five or less.

Camps & Summer Programs

The Town is currently exploring various options for summer programming and awaiting direction from the province regarding daycares and schools, anticipated next week.

For now, the Town has paused summer camp registration and cancelled the summer program registration launch scheduled for Wednesday, May 20. The Town will provide an update by the end of May. In the meantime, residents are encouraged to sign up for the Recreation E-Newsletter for updates.

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