Back to SearchWith Ontario entering a province-wide shutdown in response to growing COVID-19 transmission, the City of St. Catharines is adjusting operations at facilities and its program offerings, starting on Dec. 26.
“The shutdown measures announced by Province are a necessary measure to protect our community as COVID-19 cases have reached a crisis level in the second wave of the pandemic,” explained Mayor Walter Sendzik. “I am sure this was a difficult decision by Premier Ford – but it is the only way to put a hard stop to an escalation in cases that is straining on our health care system and putting lives at risk. We need to make this lockdown effective by staying home – period. Let’s aim to start 2021 with a reduction in cases that will point the way for a much better year for everyone.”
The City’s approach to the shutdown is based on limiting contact where possible, responding to the social, mental and physical needs of the community, maintaining enhanced safety protocols, and offering innovative ways to stay connected to the community via virtual programs.
“The City is doing everything possible to ensure our community stays safe and healthy and we look forward to welcoming everyone back as soon as possible,” said Director of Community, Recreation and Culture Services Phil Cristi.
Based on direction from the Province, the following will be instituted as part of province-wide shutdown:
City Hall
- Access to services at City Hall, such as Citizens First Customer Service, will continue to be available by appointment only
- Where possible, services will be provided through remote means
St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre
- Closed to the public
Farmers Market
- Open Saturdays only, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., with enhanced safety measures
- One patron per vendor
- Increased facility monitors will be onsite to manage lines
- Masks are required
- Local food vendors only
Arenas
- Closed to the public
Community Centres (Russell Avenue and Port Weller)
- Closed to the public
Older Adult Centres
- Closed to the public
St. Catharines Kiwanis Aquatics Centre
- Closed to the public
- Contact aquatics@stcatharines.ca to request refunds
St. Catharines Public Library
- Closed until Jan. 3, 2021
- Holds pickup only starting Jan. 4, 2021
Recreational Programming
- In-person programming cancelled until further notice
- The City will continue to deliver virtual programming and connecting with older adults via phone
In addition to the Framework guidance, members of the public are reminded of the following:
- Restrict close contacts to your household members only and essential supports. Those who live alone may join with another household for support.
- All in-person activities should be limited outside of the home to essential activities only, this includes work, school, fitness and exercise, access to healthcare, and the purchase of food or drink, gasoline, and automobile maintenance.
- Wear a mask or face covering when around others from another household, out in public places, or outdoors when unable to stay physically distant.
- Wash your hands often.
- If you have any COVID-19 symptoms or are not feeling well, stay isolated at home and get tested for COVID-19.
A complete list of closures and program disruptions can be found at www.stcatharines.ca/COVID19.
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