NEWS RELEASE
TOWN OF INNISFIL
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The Town of Innisfil will reopen outdoor sports facilities and multi-use fields, off-leash dog areas, and outdoor picnic sites, benches and shelters in parks and recreational areas, effective as of Saturday, May 23, 2020. In all cases, physical distancing of at least two metres is required.
“We’re excited to reopen some of our recreation spaces so residents can enjoy the outdoors and warm weather,” said Mayor Lynn Dollin. “It’s important that everyone continues to be responsible by keeping a safe distance from others, and following public health measures and posted signage. We all have to work together to protect our community.”
Town crews are already removing caution tape and barricades, installing new signage, and inspecting outdoor areas to ensure the sites are ready for safe public use. Fixed washrooms will reopen in June once staff are available to regularly sanitize the facilities.
The splash pad, outdoor playgrounds, and fitness equipment across Innisfil remain closed until later stages of the province’s reopening plan. During this first stage, emergency provincial orders remain in place prohibiting gatherings of more than five people outside of your current household. This applies to all public use of opened outdoor park facilities.
To ensure that individuals and families have safe access to outdoor spaces, it is critical they take everyday actions to reduce exposure to COVID-19:
• Maintain a physical distance of at least two metres (six feet) from others.
• Avoid sharing sports equipment with those outside of your current household.
• Wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face. Limited resources prevent park amenities from being regularly sanitized.
• Stay home if feeling unwell.
Public water access, boat launches, and docks
Public boat launches located at 973 Isabella St. and 1090 Shore Acres Dr. will reopen on Friday, May 22 for Innisfil property owners and tenants. The boat launch and parking at Innisfil Beach Park continues to be limited to Innisfil property owners and tenants. To avoid crowding, boaters must book their spot to launch ahead of time using a convenient, free, online booking tool available at innisfil.ca/BoatBooking.
Remaining water access points (e.g. fixed docks, floating docks, and road ends) will also reopen on Friday, May 22.
“The Town of Innisfil will approach reopening slowly and intentionally, ensuring that programs, services, and facilities protect the health and safety of our community and staff,” said Chief Administration Officer Jason Reynar. “Reopening decisions are made by the Emergency Control Group and will be based on direction and recommendations from the provincial government and the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit.”
Soccer pitches and baseball diamonds located near the Innisfil Recreational Complex (7315 Yonge St.) remain closed at this time. League and/or team sports are not permitted for play or practice on Town amenities at this time.
Beaches remain closed.
For up-to-date information on the COVID-19 pandemic in Innisfil, please visit here and connect with the Town on social media.
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