In a statement on Wednesday, the City of Victoria announced plans to re-open select outdoor facilities in a phased return to pre-COVID-19 recreation.
Starting Thursday, May 14, tennis and pickleball courts, sports fields, and skate and bike parks will be open for recreational use.
However there will be no lessons or league play, and people using these facilities will be required to follow public health guidelines like physical distancing.
“A cautious re-opening of some outdoor recreation facilities is a positive step forward for physical and mental well-being,” said Mayor Lisa Helps in the statement.
“It’s important to stay active and healthy outdoors and we’re doing that in a safe, coordinated way across the region.”
Facilities in Victoria that require close contact like playgrounds, basketball courts, outdoor gyms, and the Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre will remain closed.
On May 8, Saanich councillor and chair of the Saanich Parks and Recreation Committee announced that the municipality is looking at ways to safely reopen recreational facilities.
More information on plans for Saanich are expected in the coming days.
As Chair of @saanich's Parks and Recreation Committee, I'm excited to share that we are currently looking at when we can re-open recrearional facilities! It's important that we do this carefully and ensure that we continue to #FlattenTheCurve. https://t.co/dg3zippNf3
— Ned Taylor (@NTaylorSaanich) May 8, 2020
