Markham puts 2-stage timeline in place for reopening outdoor facilities

Shutdown of summer camps likely, however, if recent uptick in COVID-19 cases isn't curbed

Yorkregion.com
May 25, 2020
Heidi Riedner

Markham residents can look forward to more options for outdoor activities at city facilities during the next couple of weeks, but a shutdown of summer camps may be on the horizon if the gradual rise in COVID-19 infections across the province continues.

The city is taking a two-stage approach to reopening outdoor spaces and amenities that will provide more options for residents without putting public safety at risk, Mayor Frank Scarpitti said.

"This phased in approach to reopening strikes the right balance while moving toward recovery safely and carefully; as always, caution is key."

The following facilities will reopen to the public as of May 28:

• Outdoor tennis courts;

• Sports fields including soccer and baseball;

• Skateboard parks;

• Off-leash dog parks; and

• Park benches, park shelters and picnic tables.
• Facilities scheduled to reopen on June 5 include:

• Community gardens; and

• Recycling depots.

While there may be more room for residents to roam, the same rules regarding elbow room apply with physical distancing measures still in place.

"It is critical that we continue to adhere to the same rules under provincial emergency orders, including restrictions on social gatherings of more than five people and maintaining physical distancing of two metres," Scarpitti said.

Scarpitti has been quite frank about the fact the city will not rush to reopen, despite the province easing restrictions and what other municipalities may be doing, citing public safety and preventing a second wave of cases as the main drivers behind the decision.

Furthermore, the city is currently engaged in a full inspection and cleaning of facilities, installing proper signage and supporting community groups that have asked for advice and consultation regarding proper protocols to resume service.

Not all park amenities are being opened, however.

No team sports are allowed and no city permits are being issued for sports fields until further notice.

Playgrounds and basketball courts will remain closed in order to limit close contact, as will cultural venues.

While all large-scale city supported events have been cancelled until Aug. 31, there has been no final decision as to summer camp programs as of yet.

That will largely depend on whether a gradual rise in COVID-19 cases across the province during the past couple of days continues, Scarpitti said.

On May 22, the province recorded the highest daily number of new COVID-19 cases in two weeks, reporting 441 cases, with Premier Doug Ford calling the recent upward trend "concerning."

"If these trends continue, we are likely heading toward a shutdown of summer camps and a continued closure of all of our community centres until September at the earliest," Scarpitti said.

"Parents and guardians should start planning for alternate arrangements, although we are considering modified and limited programming options, if possible," he added.