As the City prepares to enter Stage 2 of its STC Framework for Recovery residents can look forward to enjoying some time outdoors with the finalized dates for reopening select amenities.
Today the City announced finalized dates for the reopening of beaches, mausoleums at the Victoria Lawn Cemetery, splash pads, the Garden City Golf Course and select sports fields.
The finalized dates come as the City begins a phased-in start to Stage 2 of recovery efforts. Safety protocols — such as occupancy limits and enhanced disinfection protocols — to limit the spread of COVID-19 have been put in place where possible, and the City remains committed to its goal of reopening facilities only when it is safe to do so for both the public and staff.
To ensure continued forward momentum in the recovery process the City is asking the public to do its part in curbing the spread of COVID-19 by adhering to safety protocols and procedures in place at newly reopened areas and facilities. Additionally, residents should continue to wash hands frequently, maintain physical distancing, stay home when sick, follow the direction of Niagara Region Public Health and comply with Provincial emergency orders.
St. Catharines Farmers Market, June 20
This Saturday the City will introduce an expanded footprint for the St. Catharines Farmers Market allowing more vendors to participate while maintaining safety requirements. Specifically, the market will expand to encompass some area outside Market Square, allowing a total of 32 vendors to set up shop beginning this Saturday. Market vendors and visitors are required to wear a face mask or covering.
Victoria Lawn Cemetery, June 20
Both the Holy Trinity and Garden of Memories Mausoleums will open to visitors this weekend, with occupancy limits in place alongside intermittent disinfection efforts. A maximum of 20 individuals will be allowed to enter the Garden of Memories Mausoleum; while 15 will be allowed to enter the Holy Trinity Mausoleum at any given time. Mausoleums will be open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week. Administrative offices are available by appointment only.
City Beaches, June 26
While barricades will come down this Friday, Sunset Beach and the beach at Lakeside Park will fully open June 26 along with their bathroom facilities. The opening will coincide with Niagara Region water-quality testing. Residents should be advised the beach will not be groomed. Visitors are reminded to maintain a separation of two metres with individuals outside their household, and that Provincial restrictions remain in place on gatherings of over 10 individuals.
City Splash Pads, July 1
City Splash pads, and their related washrooms, will open on July 1. The City will have staff on site to assist during operational hours. Capacity limits will be in place to ensure physical distancing is maintained. Hand sanitizer will be provided for users. Splash pads will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Kiwanis Field, McCaffery Park Sports Fields, July 1
The City will take a phased in approach to opening sports fields, opening these two first, on July 1 along with their related bathroom facilities.
Garden City Golf Course, July 6
While procedures to ensure safe operation are still being finalized the City is targeting July 6 for the opening date of the Garden City Golf Course. Visitors will be required to book tee times in advance and cash payments will not be accepted. Food such as snacks and beverage sales, including alcohol, will be offered, however the grill will not be in operation. Limited numbers of carts will be available. For more information visit www.stcatharines.ca/Golf.
Other Facilities
While the STC Framework for Recovery contains tentative targets for the reopening of several other facilities and spaces in Stage 2 exact dates have yet to be confirmed. The City is opting to act with caution in reopening, ensuring infrastructure and protocols are in place to welcome residents back safely. Playground equipment remains closed under Province of Ontario emergency orders. For more information on facility and amenity reopening timelines visit www.engageSTC.ca/FacilitiesRecovery.
City Hall remains closed at this time while the majority of its services continue to be offered in modified formats. For more information about City services contact Citizens First at 905.688.5600 or via email to CitizensFirst@stcatharines.ca.
City Splash pads, and their related washrooms, will open on July 1. The City will have staff on site to assist during operational hours. Capacity limits will be in place to ensure physical distancing is maintained. Hand sanitizer will be provided for users. Splash pads will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.