In Aurora, you can shoot hoops again, but don't use the play structures

Aurora starting to open facilities for public use

Yorkregion.com
May 20, 2020
John Cudmore

The Town of Aurora is considering changes to its procedural bylaw to encourage public participation and transparency. - Mike Barrett/Metroland

Aurora residents can return to some of their favourite activities at select recreational facilities.

The Town of Aurora released a list of park amenities for which recreational use is permitted starting May 19, including the use of dog park and picnic sites.

Benches and shelters in parks and recreational areas are also now open.

Recreational use of tennis and pickle ball courts, sports fields, baseball diamonds and basketball courts is permitted. Skateboard parks are being prepared by municipal staff to open during the next few days.

Facilities have been closed since mid-March due restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Following the lead of the Province of Ontario, we are pleased to announce that Aurora’s park amenities will begin to reopen effective immediately, being one of the first municipalities to do so," Aurora Mayor Tom Mrakas said in a news release issued early Tuesday afternoon. "We are focused on resuming operations on a gradual basis to ensure the health and safety of our community.

"This incremental approach protects our community and, at the same time, allows residents to spend time outdoors to benefit their well-being and overall health. We must remain mindful that this pandemic is ongoing, and in order to keep enjoying these activities, we need to practice proper physical distancing, wash our hands frequently and follow provincial orders.”

Sheppard’s Bush Conservation Area will reopen as of May 29 with restrictions. Visit lsrca.on.ca for more details on that facility.

Despite the openings, there are areas that have yet to be approved.

Not included on the open list are water-play areas, playgrounds, play structures, washrooms and clubhouses.

Also prohibited is the use of facilities for organized sporting activities, such as football, softball, ball hockey, soccer, Frisbee and basketball, due to proper physical distancing concerns.

School board open spaces remain closed.

Aurora’s trail system continues to be open. Open park spaces in Aurora were reopened on May 7 for activities such as catching or kicking a soccer ball, flying a kite or letting young children run around.

Public health guidelines will still apply according to the prohibitions under the current provincial orders, including the ban of organized public events, gatherings of more than five people (inclusive of gatherings on private property and physical distancing of at least 2 m from nonhousehold members during all outdoor activities, and entry to and use of certain outdoor recreational amenities.

For updates on the status of municipal operations, cancellations and disruptions, visit aurora.ca/covid19.