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reduced occupancy limits

Dates set for outdoor pools and arena to open

Jun 25, 2020 | 1:34 PM

As part of phase three of British Columbia’s restart plan, the City of Vernon will be opening more recreational facilities.

The Lakeview peanut pool and Lavington outdoor pool are anticipated to open Saturday, July 4 and the Kal Tire Place North Arena is scheduled to open Thursday, July 9.

“Over the last several weeks, staff have worked diligently to develop risk mitigation plans to reintroduce recreation opportunities for our public and prepare to open facilities in accordance with provincial health guidelines,” Mayor Victor Cumming said. “Thanks to the collective effort of everyone in our region – and across our province – we’ve heard the good news that B.C. is ready to transition into phase three of the BC Restart Plan. In addition, we’re excited to announce we’re ready to activate our plans, open our outdoor pools and one arena, and host children’s summer camps, to help us stay active this summer.”

All other indoor recreation facilities will remain closed until further notice, as well as the Polson Spray Park which is affected by high groundwater levels in the park.

The reopening guidelines, developed by local and provincial officials, include reduced occupancy limits, physical distancing procedures, increased cleaning schedules and some physical modifications to facilities in order to limit the risk of contracting or spreading COVID-19.

According to the B.C. Centre for Disease Control: “There is no evidence that the virus that causes COVID-19 can be spread to people through water in pools, hot tubs, spas, or water play areas. Proper operation and maintenance (including disinfection with chlorine and bromine) of these facilities should inactivate the virus in the water.”

“We have reviewed hundreds of pages of documentation and recommendations to ensure we have the best plan for a safe reopening,” Aquatics manager Gary Lefebvre said. “We know reopening is complex and must be done carefully. We are really looking forward to providing young families in our community with a safe place to stay active and cool off this summer.”

For updates on facility reopening plans, please visit our web site at www.gvrec.ca, or to view the guidelines for safe reopening, visit: www.vernon.ca/safereopening.

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