Mississauga to launch Phase 2 of re-opening on June 1st, 2020 in response to COVID-19
Today, Mississauga City Council approved a plan for a measured and phased re-opening of outdoor recreation amenities, cancelling events at City facilities to September 7, 2020 and plans and principles for community engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We continue to work to protect our City while taking a slow and measured approach to re-opening our parks facilities,” said Mayor Bonnie Crombie. “Today, Council made the decision to first reopen individual activities in parks that carry a lower risk such as skateboard and leash-free dog parks. We will explore a broader re-opening based on case numbers and how well people follow the guidelines. We also made the tough decision today to cancel major festivals and large events at City facilities and parks for the rest of the summer in an effort to prevent further spread. We remain committed to engaging the community on City building projects and will proceed with virtual engagement sessions on essential, priority projects. We once again thank residents and businesses for their patience and understanding as we navigate re-opening and recovery.”
Phased Re-Opening of Outdoor Recreation Facilities
Council approved a phased approach and safety procedures for the re-opening of City outdoor recreation amenities. Communications, physical distancing and signage are included in the plans and will be developed. Phases will be implemented in consultation with the Region of Peel Medical Officer of Health. Physical distancing is now a requirement in the park amenity re-openings as per the updated Provincial Orders.
The following outdoor recreation amenities have re-opened with safety and operational plans in place to minimize risks associated with COVID-19 (City of Mississauga Phase 1):
Municipal Golf Courses
Public Marinas and boat launch at Lakefront Promenade
Community Gardens, in partnership with Ecosource
Park and Community Parking lots
Select park and community parking lots will open on Friday May 29, 2020. Parking lots associated with Phase 2 amenities will open as those facilities are made available to the public.
Phase 2 – Starting June 1, 2020
Park benches and picnic shelters
Leash-free zones
BMX/Skate parks
Public tennis courts
Community tennis clubs
Seasonal washrooms and portable washrooms
Physical distancing measures must be maintained as per the Provincial Order.
Phase 3 – To be completed within 10 days of approval and with guidance from the Peel Region Medical Officer of Health
Multi-sport, basketball and bocce courts
Community sport fields
Physical distancing measures must be maintained
Phase 4/TBD – These facilities continue to remain closed until further notice.
Playgrounds and outdoor fitness equipment (currently closed under Provincial Order)
Public boat launch at Marina Park will open when highwater levels subside
Enforcement will continue to focus on education and ensuring residents are informed about ongoing closures and any re-openings.
Park Ambassador Program
As outdoor recreation facilities begin a phased re-opening, the City will be redeploying full-time staff to work in pairs at our major parks across the City. They will be clearly identified as City staff and will engage with residents to educate them on physical distancing requirements and closures within our parks.