Winnipeg reopens parks, athletic fields amid latest coronavirus restrictions – Winnipeg

The city of Winnipeg is reopening all parks and athletic fields amid the latest COVID-19 lockdown.

Winnipeg Mayor Brian Bowman said on Tuesday the city was reversing a decision that has seen outdoor developments closed since November after clarifying the latest public health orders with provincial authorities.

“I am very happy that residents now have more options to get out and be active safely,” Bowman said.

“Of course, I also want to stress that our residents must continue to practice the fundamentals if you venture out of your home and into these public spaces. “

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Bowman said the changes would take effect immediately on Tuesday

“The civil service has started the process of removing the signage currently in place, indicating that these spaces are closed, to be clear, that the playgrounds and sports fields are open while the process is going on,” a- he declared.

The city closed all city-operated outdoor recreation facilities on November 10 in anticipation of critical-level restrictions that came into effect in Winnipeg later in the week.

Since then, the entire province of Manitoba has come under restrictions, which originally banned large outdoor gatherings, restricted home gatherings, and shut down all non-essential businesses.

But last week, public health orders were relaxed slightly to allow certain outdoor activities and the sale of certain products, like Christmas decorations. Strict limits on group sizes and gatherings remain in place as health officials say pressure on the healthcare system remains high.

City says Winnipeggers enjoying outdoor amenities should always maintain a distance of at least two meters from anyone who is not in their household and not congregate in larger groups than provincial health authorities allow. .

A full list of outdoor recreation facilities and parks now open can be found on the city ​​website.

Provincial health officials on Tuesday announced nine new COVID-19-related deaths and 272 new cases, including 130 in the Winnipeg health region.

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