City to allow use of playgrounds, skateparks and other outdoor rec areas on May 29
By Medicine Hat News on May 23, 2020.
Playgrounds and other outdoor recreation structures will be open for public use on May 29, the Medicine Hat parks department announced Friday. Jungle gyms, swing sets, skateparks, fitness parks and other equipment had been off limits by order of provincial public health officials this spring in order to limit spread of COVID-19. This week, the city received guidelines for reopening and safe operation of the equipment going forward, and officials said a co-ordinated approach with school boards would be announced. Officials now say that will come late next week after the areas are cleaned, inspected and new signs outlining continuing health measures are set up. “The City of Medicine Hat is relying on residents to use discretion and make responsible choices to help mitigate virus transmission,” said James Will, the city’s parks general manager. “Because the structures are not sanitized, this remains a ‘use at your own risk’ scenario, but we will no longer restrict access after May 29.” Continuing measures include a requirement to avoid the equipment if sick, maintaining physical distance with others not in the same family group, and a request to bring and use hand sanitizer for personal use. The city operates more than 100 playgrounds and similar structures. 8-7
