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Niagara Falls
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Town reopens green spaces and some recreational amenities

The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake has opened all municipal green spaces and some recreational amenities.

Pavilions, shelters, soccer fields, basketball courts and baseball diamonds are all now open, but with restrictions.

These spaces are open for use by people from one household only, the town said in a media release.

Organized recreational sports are still not permitted — yet.

The changes come after last week’s announcement that town tennis and pickleball courts would reopen and are a “direct response to the provincial news release issued on May 19,” the town said.

Town staff is removing “park closed” signs and will install revised signage advising of safety measures in their place, the town said.

“Staff will also begin removing yellow caution tape from park benches and returning picnic tables to green spaces in the coming days and weeks. Furthermore, the majority of municipal parking lots will be reopened to accommodate those visiting town parks.”

The town is asking the public to be patient as staff implement changes.

Town-operated outdoor playgrounds, structures and equipment, fitness equipment, public swimming pools, splash pads and wading pools remain closed for now.

Anyone planning to utilize municipal green spaces, recreational amenities, or benches and picnic tables is “strongly encouraged to ensure preventive measures, as outlined by the Niagara Region public health department, are followed at all times,” the town said.

“I fear people may gain a false sense of security with these reopenings,” Lord Mayor Betty Disero said in the town announcement.

She said it is “imperative that everyone continues to follow public health guidelines, the most important being to stay home.” 

She said if you can’t stay home, you should practice social distancing.

“If you go out and use town spaces and amenities, please only do so with members of your household. If you’re near people who do not reside with you, always maintain physical distance.”

She noted the province is recommending wearing a cloth mask if you cannot maintain physical distance.

Bylaw enforcement officers will continue to enforce provincial emergency orders, including restricting gatherings of more than five people outside the same household.

Those wishing to report a violation or issue a complaint are encouraged to email covidcomplaints@notl.com.

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