Hitting the beach? Things to know as Georgina wades back in the water

‘Not back to the beach as usual’: New COVID-19 safety measures at De La Salle Park as Georgina reopens beaches

Yorkregion.com
July 20, 2020
Amanda Persico

In keeping with its staged approach, the town is reopening De La Salle Park with reduced capacity and new physical distancing restrictions.

“It does not mean it’s back to the beach as usual,” said Mayor Margaret Quirk.

“By opening one beach and waterfront park, we will be able to see if the rules will be respected.”

And if the town is satisfied the safety precautions implemented are being followed, the town will consider opening other beach locations in the future, she added.

“If we don’t receive compliance, we will shut it down,” Quirk said.

Georgina beaches reopen

WHAT BEACH LOCATIONS ARE OPEN?

Currently, only De La Salle Park is open. The beach and park area are open to the public daily 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., starting July 20.

HOW IS THE TOWN LIMITING BEACH CAPACITY?

Town staff will be on site to monitor and control the number of people entering and using the park.

Town staff are using a customized app and electronic device to monitor beach-goers and vehicle volume at the park.

Georgina beaches reopen

WHERE CAN I PARK?

The general parking lot off Metro Road will be also be reduced. Once the parking lots reach capacity, the parking lot will be closed to both cars and those walking to the beach.

Georgina residents with town issued parking passes are to park at the Chapel building parking lot accessible from Lake Drive. Residents are reminded to obtain their 2020 resident parking pass. In the interim, the town is still accepting 2019 parking passes.

WHAT OTHER MEASURES ARE IN PLACE TO ENSURE PHYSICAL DISTANCING?

The town has implemented one-way entrances and exits to the beach area, using the tunnel and staircase respectively.

Physical distancing in the sand and water areas are to be maintained and will be monitored.

Georgina beaches reopen

CAN I GO SWIMMING?

Yes.

The beach area is restricted to swimming and water activities only -- no lounging or suntanning.

CAN I BRING A PICNIC?

Yes, but only in the grassy park area. Coolers, chairs and umbrellas are allowed in the park area.

There are painted circles on the park grass directing visitors to maintain physical distancing.

Barbecues are not permitted on the beach or in the park area.

Public washrooms will be open and extra porta-pottys have been added to the area.

Georgina beaches reopen

MORE INFO:

Visit georgina.ca.