Penticton’s Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has presented details to city council about its phased plan to restart the city’s facilities.
The EOC will oversee the reopening of city facilities using a phased approach that is subject to change based on current events. The approach mirrors what is being done by the province.
“The EOC is taking a methodical approach that involves closely monitoring each situation while following the guidelines of the Provincial Health Officer and regulatory bodies for sports and recreation,” said Penticton fire chief and EOC deputy director Larry Watkinson.
“Because the threat of COVID-19 still remains, please remember to be mindful of those around you, be aware of your situation and be respectful of other people’s space.”
READ MORE: COVID-19: City of Penticton planning ‘restart’ of public facilities
The City progressed to Phase 2 on May 15 with the reopening of select outdoor recreation facilities for casual use, including skateparks, tennis and pickleball courts, dog parks, pump track and sport courts.
Indoor recreation and cultural facilities, city hall and city yards will remain closed to the public at this time, said the city in a news release.
The EOC has recommended the following reopening phases. The timing of future openings will be based on direction from the provincial government, community need and signs of progress.
Next phases include:
- Phase 2b: Restore certain public services at city hall. Also, additional outdoor recreation facilities will reopen for casual use, including basketball and volleyball courts, playgrounds and splash pads. Some outdoor facilities will be available for rentals and organized use.
- Phase 3: Select indoor recreation facilities (such as the Community Centre, arenas, Cleland Theatre, Penticton Public Library and Penticton Museum and Archives) will start being made available for modified programming and limited rentals.
- Phase 4: All outdoor/indoor recreation facilities open for use.
“We appreciate all the work the EOC is doing to ensure city facilities will meet safety guidelines,” said Penticton mayor John Vassilaki. “We may only just be in the beginning stages of recovery, but it’s a step in the right direction.
“Let’s appreciate the great opportunities we have right now to get outdoors and enjoy Penticton’s beautiful landscape.”
All updates involving the reopening of city facilities and services will be posted to penticton.ca/restart.
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