North Bay, ON – May 28, 2020 – The City of North Bay, in consultation with Public Health, will reopen all municipal beaches effective Friday, May 29, 2020.
Residents are reminded to physical distance and that groups of more than five that are not part of the same household are still not permitted. Please note that residents who choose to swim will do so at their own risk as there will be no lifeguard supervision available at municipal beaches this summer.
Those who arrive at a beach area that is too busy or crowded are asked to wait until there is enough space to properly practice physical distancing or to return at another time.
“After careful evaluation, and in consultation with public health, we will be opening our beaches,” said Mayor Al McDonald. “Our community has remained vigilant and we trust that residents will be responsible and respect the restrictions in place regarding physical distancing and gatherings of no more than five people.”
The City will monitor the use of beaches and implement changes if necessary should crowding become a concern.
“As beaches reopen, and for them to remain open, it is important that we continue to practice physical distancing of two metres. If physical distancing is not possible, do not enter the beach area,” said Dr. Jim Chirico, Medical Officer of Health. “To help stop the spread of COVID-19, it is important to practice physical distancing, wash or sanitize your hands often, wear a mask when physical distancing is a challenge, stay home as much as possible, cover coughs and sneezes and stay home when sick.”
The opening of beaches aligns with the province’s gradual easing of COVID-19 restrictions on outdoor recreation amenities, including expanded access to municipal parks and open spaces and allowing the use of benches, picnic tables and shelters.
Outdoor play structures and equipment, fitness equipment and splash pads remain closed until later stages of the province's reopening plan.
For an up-to-date list of COVID-19-affected municipal services and facilities, please visit https://www.cityofnorthbay.ca/covid-19-information