As the province moves into Stage 3 in many areas, the City of Sault Ste. Marie has some plans in place going forward.
The City advises that outdoor playgrounds and play structures will be ready for use on July 17, though the city is also reminding users to practice physical distancing "except between individuals from the same household or social circle."
Following is a full release issued by the City late Thursday afternoon:
As part of the Ontario Government’s Stage 3 plan, the City of Sault Ste. Marie will implement further service modifications to a number of areas.
Playgrounds
Outdoor playgrounds and play structures will be open for use beginning July 17. It is advisable to practice physical distancing of at least two metres at all playgrounds and play structures, except between individuals from the same household or social circle.
Masking
Beginning July 17, under the instruction of Algoma Public Health, City employees and members of the public who enter or remain in enclosed City facilities must wear a mask or face covering. Exceptions include children under the age of two, those with respiratory or medical conditions that make it difficult to wear a mask or those who have difficulty putting a mask on themselves. Refer to on-site signage and instructions.
Gatherings (physical distancing rules still in effect)
Indoor limit is 50 people
Outdoor limit is 100 people
“As part of Stage 3 we will continue the process of preparing additional facilities to reopen in the near future. To protect the health and safety of our residents and employees, slowly reopening facilities using a planned phased approach helps to ensure appropriate safety measures are in place to limit public health risks,” says Malcolm White, CAO, City of Sault Ste. Marie. “We continue to take guidance from the Province of Ontario and move through the phases of reopening based on our resources, what is best for our community and the advice from our Public Health officials.”
The City of Sault Ste. Marie continues to work closely with all community stakeholders to monitor the COVID-19 situation and respond accordingly. Users of City facilities are asked to respect protocols and signage at all times. For the most current information, updates will be posted to the City’s website at www.saultstemarie.ca/covid19 and on social media.
