Back to SearchWith Niagara moving into the third stage of Provincial recovery efforts the City is setting dates for reopening of several facilities and amenities.
The gradual reopening of a wider array of City facilities, including City Hall, comes as the City prepares to enter Stage 3 of its STC Framework for Recovery.
As more City locations, and nearly all local businesses, reopen their doors the City is reminding residents that vigilance in the face of COVID-19 is more important than ever. Residents should continue efforts to slow the spread of the virus such as physical distancing, proper hand hygiene, and the use of masks in enclosed public spaces.
“We’re moving forward but we need to remain vigilant and pull together as a community, continuing to follow health and safety guidelines,” said Mayor Walter Sendzik. “Facilities and services may look a little different as we reopen, but it’s important we protect the community, keep the momentum going, and avoid moving backwards.”
Guests to City facilities will be required to wear a mask, in accordance with the City’s Mandatory Masks By-law. The City is working to ensure procedures, such as passive screening of visitors, and infrastructure are in place to ensure the safety of both residents and staff as more spaces reopen.
“Safety is our top priority as we reopen spaces, with that said we are excited to once again welcome residents and deliver the services they count on,” said Chief Administrative Officer Shelley Chemnitz, adding “as we welcome the public back we want them to have the confidence we are working to keep them safe, so we can continue to advance out of the pandemic, we know they have missed these amenities and their patience, and cooperation, is beyond appreciated.”
As part of Stage 3 recovery efforts the following facilities will reopen to the public.
Playground equipment, July 24
With Provincial restrictions lifted the City will begin reopening playground equipment at its parks starting Friday, July 24. Fences and closure signage will be removed from all playgrounds by July 29. Residents should note playground equipment will not be sanitized. Washroom openings, under a phased-in approach, will commence after playgrounds have been opened.
St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre, July 28
The museum will open to the public with safety protocols in place on July 28. With limits on occupancy the museum is asking guests to call ahead and book a time slot to visit, allowing for disinfection efforts between groups of guests. Prospective visitors can call 905.984.8880 to book their time.
Port Weller Community Centre, July 27
With staff already on hand to operate the on-site bathrooms related to the adjacent splash pad, Port Weller Community Centre will open ahead of schedule, on July 27, for drop in recreational activities and modified programming.
Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm washrooms, July 31
Animals will not return this year to the farm, however the public washrooms on site will reopen on July 31, with the area remaining in use as a passive park space.
City Hall, Aug. 10
While the majority of services offered through City Hall remain accessible remotely via modified formats, the City will begin accepting appointments for in-person delivery of services on Aug. 10. Those wishing to book an appointment will be able to do so online at www.stcatharines.ca/CitizensFirst, or by calling 905.688.5600. With limitations on the number of individuals allowed in the building, and staff resources, residents are asked to access services remotely if they are able.
Russell Avenue Community Centre, Aug. 22
Although the centre will reopen Aug. 22, residents should note programming may be limited or altered, and all rental requests may not be accommodated.
Seymour-Hannah Sports and Entertainment Centre, Aug. 22
The centre will reopen Aug. 22, with ice preparation underway as of July 31.
St. Catharines Kiwanis Aquatics Centre, Aug. 31
The aquatics centre will reopen Aug. 31 with modified programming. Initially only leisure and lane swimming will be offered. Swim lessons, fitness classes and rentals will resume on Sept. 21.
Older Adult Centres, Oct. 5
While the City continues to review operations a target date of Oct. 5 has been set for the reopening of Older Adult Centres.
St. Catharines Enterprise Centre, Oct. 5
The City’s small-businesses support centre has continued to operate with virtual service delivery throughout the pandemic. In-person services will resume on Oct. 5.
Please note, with the fluid nature of the ongoing emergency, some dates listed above are subject to change.
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