CAMPBELL RIVER – The Splash Park is now open, and the City of Campbell River is relying on people to carefully follow public health directives for safe enjoyment at this popular location.
“To safely re-open and operate facilities, we must all continue good public health practices, and that means continuing to interact differently, even outdoors,” says Drew Hadfield, the City’s director of operations. “The Splash Park is free to use and very popular. We’re issuing an important public health reminder with re-opening so people know what to expect and how to use this facility responsibly.”
British Columbia public health guidelines prohibit gatherings of 50 or more people.
“We don’t have resources to constantly monitor the area, so we’ve posted signs with safety reminders. We will be counting on everyone to refrain from overcrowding the area and asking adults to maintain appropriate physical distance from each other,” Hadfield says. “We know people are looking forward to summer fun, and our top priority remains the safe use of City facilities and amenities. Please follow directions posted on signs. Also, stay home if you are sick.”
The City has now re-opened access to all parks amenities except the outdoor pool. Sports fields and courts are available for casual use only (no tournaments or team playing) at this time.
“We’re carefully reviewing options to expand doubles tennis, which is currently limited to members of the same household. Any changes will be posted on signs at the courts, following provincial public health guidelines,” Hadfield adds. “For all parks equipment, including sports courts, playgrounds and picnic tables, we remind people to use these facilities responsibly, in small numbers, and to exercise caution when touching public surfaces. Please continue to be careful about physical distancing, and wash hands before and after play. Use disinfectant wipes before touching public surfaces where possible.”
In May, the City began re-opening parks amenities, including sports courts and outdoor washrooms, that had been closed or restricted due to the risk of COVID-19. Campbell River’s re-opening plan is based on guidelines and industry standards developed by the BC Recreation and Parks Association, the Provincial Health Officer and Worksafe BC.
Campbell River’s outdoor pool will not open this year because physical distancing cannot be accommodated in changerooms and maintenance and repairs are ongoing after delays due to COVID-19.
