Enjoy the fresh air! Richmond Hill to reopen select parks starting May 22

Richmond Hill expects to reopen some of its park amenities beginning 2 months after the city shut them down

Yorkregion.com
May 22, 2020
Sheila Wang

Go fly a kite!

Richmond Hill expects to reopen some of its parks beginning this weekend, two months after the city shut down outdoor amenities in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19.

The city is reopening green spaces and the Tower Hill off-leash dog area starting May 22 for residents to go outside and enjoy the fresh air, according to a news release.

It marks the beginning of the city’s plan to gradually resume select park amenities over the coming weeks.

"It’s going to take us some time, but I want to thank everyone in advance for your patience as we work to reopen amenities in our 190 parks as quickly, but also as safely, as possible," Mayor Dave Barrow said.

The mayor encouraged the residents to have fun outside and reminded them to "continue to be vigilant" in the efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19.

There have been 233 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Richmond Hill, including eight deaths and 153 resolved cases, as of May 21.

People are allowed to engage in activities in the green spaces such as playing catch, kicking a ball, flying a kite, exercising or stretching on a yoga mat and letting children run around, the city said.

In the dog park, residents are asked not to bring dog toys or bowls. They also need to bring their own hand sanitizer and use their own bags to pick up after their dogs.

Starting with neighbourhood parks and parkettes, city staff will be working to remove caution tape and take down barriers to reopen amenities including picnic tables, benches, basketball courts, tennis courts, skate parks and sports fields in the following weeks.

Residents are asked not to use these amenities until they’re reopened.

The city will post updated signs as the amenities are opened up.

Residents are strongly encouraged to stay local and only use parks and trails in their own neighbourhood and with people from their own household.

Trail-goers and park-goers must continue to adhere to the 2 m physical distancing and must not congregate in groups, unless they live together.

In case of a crowded park or trail, visitors are advised to wait until there is enough space to physically distance or return at another time.

It’s important to note that not all park amenities will be opened at this time.

Playgrounds, outdoor exercise equipment, splash pads, washrooms and clubhouses will remain closed until the provincial emergency order has been lifted or relaxed.

In addition, organized team sports such as soccer, baseball, football and basketball will not be permitted, as they don’t allow for physical distancing. Permits for soccer and baseball diamonds will not be issued until further notice.

Community centres and other city facilities remain closed to the public.